Setting Up Python 3.5 with VS Code in WSL

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Friendly Introduction

Embark on a journey to establish an efficient development environment using Python 3.5 with Visual Studio Code (VS Code) within the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL).

What You Will Learn

Discover the process of setting up Python 3.5 and configuring Visual Studio Code in the WSL environment, enhancing your coding experience.

Understanding the Setup Process

To seamlessly integrate Python into VS Code within WSL, several strategic steps are essential: 1. Ensure proper installation and configuration of WSL on your Windows machine. 2. Install Python 3.5 within the Linux distribution running on WSL. 3. Configure VS Code with specific extensions and settings adjustments for harmonious operation with WSL.

By following these steps, you can utilize VS Code as your primary IDE while leveraging the Linux-based toolchain provided by WSL.

Key Steps

  • Install WSL: Enable and install Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) on your Windows machine.
  • Install Python 3.5 in WSL: Use a package manager within your Linux distribution to install Python.
  • Configure VS Code: Install Remote – WSL extension and other necessary extensions like Python or Pylint for enhanced productivity.

Detailed Explanation

The integration process starts by enabling “Windows Subsystem for Linux” from Windows features and installing a preferred Linux distribution from Microsoft Store, commonly Ubuntu. Update package lists, install Python 3.5 if needed, then download & install Visual Studio code along with its “Remote – WS” extension on Windows to bridge between platforms seamlessly.

FAQs

  1. How do I enable WSL? To enable Windows Subsystem for Linux:

    • Open Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off.
    • Check “Windows Subsystem for Linux”, click OK, and reboot if prompted.

  2. Can I use any version of Python besides 3.5? Yes, you can use other versions of Python following similar setup steps provided in this guide.

  3. Do I need special permissions to run installations? Certain commands in Ubuntu/WSL may require superuser privileges; ensure you have necessary permissions during installation processes.

  4. Is there a difference between installing python via Ubuntu�s package manager versus Anaconda? While both methods provide a working python environment, Anaconda offers a comprehensive data science ecosystem pre-installed compared to traditional APT methods.

Conclusion

By meticulously following these instructions, you lay the groundwork for embracing full-fledged development using powerful tools like Visual Studio code on versatile platforms offered by Microsoft’s innovative solutions combined with classic Unix-like experiences through GNU/Linux distributions under the umbrella of ‘Windows Subsystem ForLinux’.

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