Executable installer will stop being released with Python 3.16
Starting with Python 3.16, the traditional executable installer will no longer be released for Windows. Users are encouraged to use the Python install manager, available via the Microsoft Store or WinGet, for installing and managing Python runtimes. The install manager supports Python versions from 3.5 onward but only on Windows 10 and later operating systems.
- ▪The traditional executable installer will stop being released with Python 3.16.
- ▪The Python install manager is recommended and can be installed via the Microsoft Store or using the command 'winget install 9NQ7512CXL7T'.
- ▪The install manager supports Python versions from 3.5 but only on Windows 10 or Windows Server 2022 and later.
- ▪Users should uninstall previous Python launchers to avoid conflicts with the 'py' command.
- ▪The install manager automatically updates within a day of a new release and does not require re-downloading after installation.
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Python install manager 26.1 Release date: March 31, 2026 The Python install manager for Windows is our tool for installing and managing runtimes. The traditional executable installer will stop being released with Python 3.16 As well as the files below, the Python install manager can be installed using the Microsoft Store app. For most users, this is the recommended approach. To install using WinGet, the command is winget install 9NQ7512CXL7T. Full documentation for the Python install manager is available in our documentation. In particular, there are troubleshooting guides, as well as instructions around administrative installs, including intended use of the legacy MSI installer. Use of the Store app or the MSIX package is recommended.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Python.org.