Python 3.12 is the default Python version on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. It introduces improved error messages, a new type annotation syntax, and performance enhancements. This guide confirms the installation and shows how to set up Python development tools.

Tested and valid on:

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Prerequisites

Ubuntu 24.04 LTS server
A user with sudo privileges

Step 1 – Check the Default Python Version

Ubuntu 24.04 ships with Python 3.12:

python3 --version

If Python 3.12 is not the default, install it from the Deadsnakes PPA:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa -y
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3.12 -y

Step 2 – Install pip and Development Tools

Install pip and essential development packages:

sudo apt install python3-pip python3.12-dev python3.12-venv build-essential -y

Step 3 – Verify pip Installation

Confirm pip is available:

pip3 --version

Step 4 – Set Python 3.12 as Default (optional)

If multiple Python versions are installed:

sudo update-alternatives --install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.12 1
sudo update-alternatives --config python3

Step 5 – Create a Virtual Environment

Always use a virtual environment for projects:

python3.12 -m venv ~/myproject/venv
source ~/myproject/venv/bin/activate

Step 6 – Install Packages in the Virtual Environment

Install packages without affecting the system Python:

pip install requests flask django

Step 7 – Deactivate and Manage the Environment

Deactivate when done:

deactivate

Reactivate later:

source ~/myproject/venv/bin/activate

Conclusion

Python 3.12 is ready to use on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. Always use virtual environments to isolate project dependencies and avoid conflicts with system packages.

How to Install Python 3.12 on Ubuntu 24.04