How Do I Set Python 2.7 as the Default on Linux Without Changing the System Default?

How to Set Python 2.7 as Default on Linux

You've encountered a common scenario: you have multiple Python versions installed on your Linux machine, and you want 2.7 to be the default. While altering the system default may seem straightforward, it's actually recommended to avoid doing so.

Why Not Change the Default?

• System Dependency: Package manager scripts and other system-level processes often rely on a specific Python version in /usr/bin. Modifying this path could disrupt package management and system functionality.
• Risk of Compatibility Issues: Scripts written for Python 2.6 may not run perfectly in 2.7, leading to potential errors.
• Path Modification: Changing the PATH variable to prioritize /usr/local/bin over /usr/bin affects more than just Python, potentially causing other issues.

Alternative Solutions

1. Shell Alias:

Create a shell alias to invoke Python 2.7 directly:

<code class="bash">alias python=/usr/local/bin/python2.7</code>

This allows you to run 2.7 as "python" while keeping the default system Python intact.

2. Virtual Environments (venvs):

Create a virtual environment specifically for your Python 2.7 project:

<code class="bash">python2.7 -m venv ~/my_project_env
source ~/my_project_env/bin/activate</code>

This activates the venv, making 2.7 the active version within that environment. When you deactivate the venv, the default Python will be restored.

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