What is Python?: From the Python web site: "Python is an interpreted, interactive, object-oriented programming language". Python, although similar in some ways to Perl and Java, is its own creature. Knowing Perl or Java will help you learn Python, but it's just as easy to pick it up as your first language. Python is great for both shell and web scripting and is making it's way into every facet of computing from Google to video games.
Interpreted, Interactive, & Object-Oriented?: When a language is interpreted it means that it is processed at runtime by the interpreter - in this case, Python. Perl is also an interpreted language. Interactive means that you can actually sit at a Python prompt and interact with the interpreter directly. Finally, Object-Oriented is a style or technique of programming that encapsulates code within objects.
Who wrote it?: Guido van Rossum first created Python in the late eighties and early nineties. It is now maintained by a core development team, although Rossum still holds a vital role in directing it's progress. Like Perl, Python source code is now available under the GNU General Public License (GPL).
Where can I get it?: Many web hosts and Unix / Linux machines already have Python installed and running, so check with your host or system administrator first. If you're installing on a local machine, go to the Python web site, click on the 'Download' link, and find the version for your operating system. There are auto-installers available for Windows and MacOS X.
How do I install it?: Installation of the Windows and MacOS X files are very straight-forward. In most cases, you can simply run the installer and leave all the default options available. Compiling Python from source can be a bit more involved, but really shouldn't scare you either. Look in the Python Tutorials for more detailed tutorials on installing or compiling Python for your OS.
How do I know it's working?: Get to a command prompt on your system and type the word 'python'. If Python is installed correctly, you should find yourself at the '>>>' Python prompt. You can even run your first program to try it out. Type the following line at the '>>>' prompt:
print "Testing Python";
You should see it print the words 'Testing Python' underneath.
print "Testing Python";
You should see it print the words 'Testing Python' underneath.
Additional Information: If you want to get started learning Python, browse through our Python Tutorials pages. You can also visit the Python web site for great beginner tutorials and, of course, the official documentation.