Python Virtual Environment

Introduction

A virtual environment helps to separate dependencies required by different projects by creating an isolated environment. This is an important tool used by most python developers.

Why virtual environment is required?

Now let us consider a situation where a user is working on two projects in which one project needs Django 4.0 and the other project uses Django 4.1. So we create an isolated virtual environment to separate both dependencies required by the project.

When and where to use a virtual environment?

Now in Python, by default, in our system every project stores and retrieves site packages (third-party libraries). Now does this matter, then how?

Now in the above example, we considered two versions of Django as dependencies. Now, this problem is real for python as python can not differentiate between two versions of a library, and both versions will exist in the same folder with the same name.

Now in a situation like these, virtual environments come into play. To solve this problem, we create two isolated environments for both of the projects. Also, there is no limit to creating virtual environments because they are directories and inside there are only a few scripts. We should create a virtual environment for python-based projects so that the dependencies for every project are separated from each other.

Virtual environments working

In Python, there is a module named “virtual” which is a tool to create virtual environments in python. This module creates a folder that contains needed executable files to use the package that a Python project requires.

Installing the virtualenv

$ pip install virtualenv

Testing the installation

$ virtualenv --version

To create a virtual environment using the code below:

$ virtualenv my_name

After the command gets executed, a directory is created named my_name. Now this directory contains all the necessary executable files to make use of the package that a project needs. In this directory, all the libraries get installed.

Now In Python 3, if we want to specify the interpreter, then use the following command:

$ virtualenv -p /usr/bin/python3 virtualenv_name

For Python v2.7, to create a virtual environment, use the following command:

$ virtualenv -p /usr/bin/python2.7 virtualenv_name

Now we need to activate this virtual environment. The command mentioned below is used to activate an environment.

$ cd <envname>
$ Scripts\activate
$ source virtualenv_name/bin/activate

Note: source is a shell command designed for users running on Linux (or any Posix, but whatever, not Windows).

write your code here: Coding Playground

Menu

Python Virtual Environment

Introduction

Why virtual environment is required?

When and where to use a virtual environment?

Virtual environments working

Mark Lesson Complete (Python Virtual Environment)

Menu

Python Virtual Environment

Course Lessons

Free DSA Resources: Courses, YouTube Channels & 2026 Roadmap

A Career in Digital Marketing - A Complete Guide for Beginners

Structure of DBMS Explained: Components, Diagram & Architecture

Advanced Algorithms and Problem Solving Techniques

Data Structures: Foundation of Effective Programming

Importance of Banks: Role of Banking System in Economy, Business & Development

STP Marketing Framework: Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning

What Is Branding? Meaning, Elements and Importance

What Is Digital Marketing and Why It Matters in India

What Is Marketing? Definition, Types and Importance

Indian Brand Success Stories & Lessons

Product Life Cycle: The 4 Stages Explained

Evolution of Marketing: Eras and Orientations

Content Marketing Strategy: A Step-by-Step Framework

GE-McKinsey Matrix: The Nine-Box Portfolio Model

SEO vs SEM: Differences, Pros and Cons

Marketing Frameworks Cheat Sheet: Quick Reference

Email Marketing Best Practices That Drive Results

Influencer Marketing Strategy: A Complete Guide

Marketing Mix Explained: The 4Ps and 7Ps

Sales vs Marketing: Key Differences Explained

Core Branding Concepts: Identity, Image and Equity

The 9 Digital Marketing Channels Explained

AIDA Model: The 4 Stages of the Customer Journey

Goods vs Services Marketing: What's the Difference?

The Digital Marketing Funnel: Awareness to Conversion

Brand Architecture Models: Branded House vs House of Brands

Case Study Frameworks for Analytics Interviews

B2B vs B2C Marketing: Differences, Examples and Strategy

BCG Matrix Explained: Stars, Cash Cows, Dogs & Question Marks

Brand Extension vs Line Extension: Strategy, Fit and Risks

Kapferer's Brand Identity Prism: The 6 Facets

Digital Marketing Terms: CPC, CTR, ROAS and More

Ansoff Matrix: The 4 Growth Strategies with Examples

Customer Psychology in Marketing: Needs and Buyer Behaviour

Marketing Terms & Jargon: A Beginner Glossary

Brand Positioning Bullseye Framework

Digital Marketing Jobs and Career Roles in India

Porter's Five Forces: Industry Analysis Framework

What Is Brand Architecture? Types and Examples

Co-Branding and Brand Personality Explained

PESTLE Analysis: Meaning, Factors and India FMCG Examples

Essential Digital Marketing Tools & Platforms for India

AI and GenAI in Analytics - The Modern Analyst's Toolkit

Analytics Metrics Deep-Dive: A/B Testing and Retention

SWOT Analysis: How to Build One with Examples

Digital Marketing Frameworks for Campaign Planning

Brand Differentiation: Practical Levers to Make a Brand Stand Out

Brand Extension vs Line Extension: Meaning & Examples

Keller's Brand Equity Model (CBBE Pyramid) Explained

The Marketing Environment: Micro and Macro Factors

Brand Equity Measurement and Brand Valuation

Social Media Marketing in India: Platform Selection Guide

How to Apply for Jobs as Fresher & Get Selected in One Go

What is Search Engine Optimization & How It Works

All About Resume and Its Importance

Operating System: Functions

Java Programs: Know the Best Java Programs for Beginners

OOPs (Object Oriented Programming) in C++

What is Full Stack Development?

C++ Language: An Overview

Introduction to Goal Setting and Risk Profiling

Header in C++

Learn about Boolean in Python

Encapsulation in Java: A Comprehensive Tutorial

Ultimate Guide to HR Interview Questions for Freshers

Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

Most Common 10 Telephonic Interview Questions

Data Science vs. Data Analytics - What's the Difference?

What is Meant by Machine Learning & What Can Machine Learning Do?

What is Digital Marketing & How to Become a Digital Marketer

Introduction to Big Data Analytics: From Basics to Implementation

Python Libraries

How To Start Competitive Programming - A Complete Guide

Javascript vs Typescript: What is the Difference?

Introduction To SQL: A Complete Guide

Introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP)