Build Python environments virtually with ease using this software, allowing for easy management of dependencies and isolation of projects without affecting your system's settings. Create multiple environments and switch between them effortlessly for efficient workflow.
For instance, when you want to install an application and leave it be, virtualenv comes in handy. Once you install everything into /usr/lib/python2.4/site-packages, you may end up inadvertently upgrading an application that shouldn't be upgraded. However, virtualenv helps to prevent such occurrences by creating a unique environment that enables any library installation without interfering with other virtualenv environments (and optionally doesn't use the globally installed libraries either).
To get started with virtualenv, simply type "python virtualenv.py ENV," and it will create the required environment. Depending on your Python version, the environment installation directories will vary, for instance, on Python 2.5, it will create ENV/lib/python2.5/site-packages/, where it will install any libraries you need. Additionally, virtualenv also installs Setuptools for you. Consequently, if you use the ENV/bin/easy_install command, any packages will install into the created virtual environment.
It's also important to note that if you're working on Windows, you will find the scripts and executables go into ENVScripts. Therefore, everywhere you see bin/, replace it with Scripts. In conclusion, virtualenv is an invaluable software tool for developers that enables them to create isolated Python environments that guarantee compatibility and stability.
Version 1.4.2: N/A