How to Make Python 2.7 the Default on Linux without Altering the System Configuration?

Making Python 2.7 the Default on Linux

Many Linux distributions include multiple versions of Python, which can be confusing when trying to execute a specific version. In this instance, you have both Python 2.6 and 2.7 installed, and you want to make 2.7 the default.

Maintaining System Default Python

While it may seem tempting to change the default Python version, it's generally not recommended. The system Python is typically used by many scripts and applications, and altering its version can have unintended consequences. Instead, consider using one of the following alternatives:

Shell Alias

Create a shell alias to run Python 2.7 when you type "python":

alias python=/usr/local/bin/python2.7

This way, you can execute Python 2.7 without changing the system default.

Virtual Environments

Create a virtual environment (venv) for your Python 2.7 project. A venv isolates your project's dependencies from the system's, allowing you to use specific Python versions without affecting the system.

To create a venv, run:

python3 -m venv venv_name

Then, activate the venv and install the necessary dependencies, including Python 2.7 if needed.

By using either a shell alias or virtual environments, you can access Python 2.7 without compromising the system's default Python configuration.

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