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How to Install Anaconda on Windows and Mac

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Anaconda remains one of the fastest ways to set up a reliable Python environment for data science, AI projects, and everyday development. Instead of installing packages one by one, Anaconda bundles Python, Conda, Jupyter Notebook, and scientific libraries into a single ecosystem. This guide walks you through the complete installation process on Windows and macOS, including verification and first-time setup.

How to Install Anaconda on Windows and Mac
How to Install Anaconda on Windows and Mac

What You Need Before Installing

Before you begin, make sure your system meets the basic requirements:

Windows Requirements

  • Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
  • At least 2 GB RAM and 3 GB free disk space
  • Admin rights to install software

macOS Requirements

  • macOS 10.13 or newer
  • Apple Silicon and Intel both supported
  • 3 GB free disk space

How to Install Anaconda on Windows

Step 1: Download the Installer

  1. Go to the official website: https://www.anaconda.com/download
  2. Choose Windows (64-bit).
  3. Download the Anaconda Individual Edition installer (EXE file).

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Double-click the downloaded EXE.
  2. Choose Just Me (recommended).
  3. Keep the default installation path: C:\Users\YourUsername\Anaconda3
  4. On the options screen:
    • Add Anaconda to PATH → Leave unchecked (recommended)
    • Register Anaconda as default Python → Keep checked

Click Install and wait for it to complete.

Step 3: Finish Installation

Once done, click Finish and open:

  • Anaconda Navigator (GUI)
  • Anaconda Prompt (command line)

How to Install Anaconda on Mac

Step 1: Download the macOS Installer

Visit: https://www.anaconda.com/download
Choose macOS and download the recommended PKG installer.

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Open the .pkg file.
  2. Continue through the installation steps.
  3. Accept defaults unless you want a custom directory.

Step 3: Verify Installation

Open the Terminal and run:

conda --version

If you see a version number, the installation is complete.

How to Create Your First Conda Environment

Anaconda allows you to manage multiple Python versions easily.

Create a new environment:

conda create --name myenv python=3.10

Activate it:

conda activate myenv

Install a package:

conda install numpy

How to Launch Jupyter Notebook

Jupyter Notebook is included with Anaconda by default.
To open it:

  1. Open Anaconda Navigator → Launch Jupyter Notebook
    OR
  2. From command line: jupyter notebook

It will open in your browser automatically.

How to Update Anaconda

Keeping Anaconda updated ensures you get the latest features.

conda update conda
conda update anaconda

How to Uninstall Anaconda (If Needed)

Windows

  1. Open Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program
  2. Select Anaconda → Uninstall

macOS

Run:

rm -rf ~/anaconda3

Common Installation Issues and Fixes

1. Conda not recognized in Terminal

Run:

conda init

Restart your shell afterwards.

2. Python version conflict

Create a separate environment instead of using base.

3. Permission denied on Mac

Run the installer again with admin access.

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