Getting Started :

Of course, the first thing you need to do is install Python, if you don ’ t already have it. Installers are available for Windows, Macintosh, Linux, Unix, and everything from OpenVMS to the Playstation (no, I ’ m not kidding). 

Obtaining Python and Installing It :

If you go to ' www.python.org/download ' you can find links to download the correct version of Python for your operating system. Follow the install instructions for your particular Python distribution — instructions can vary significantly depending on what operating system you are installing to.

What Version Number to Install : 

Although the examples in this book should work for any Python version above 2.0, it is best to install the latest stable build for your operating system.

For Windows (which is the environment I primarily work in), the latest stable version is 2.51. There is an alpha build of Python 3.0 available as of this writing, but other than just looking at it for R & D enjoy.