Python is a highly versatile programming language used for various purposes – data science, web development, automation, and many more. It’s an easy-to-read language with clear syntax, making it beginner-friendly.
However, Python isn’t inherently portable – meaning, you can’t run a Python script on any device that doesn’t have Python and all required package dependencies installed. This can be a significant drawback when developing an application intended for distribution.
This tutorial will guide you on how to make your Python application portable, allowing anyone to run it, irrespective of whether they have Python installed or not.
Step 1: Install PyInstaller
PyInstaller is a package that freezes (packages) Python applications into stand-alone executables. Frozen binaries bundle together the Python interpreter, the script, and all the dependencies into a single package. This package can run on any compatible operating system, irrespective of whether Python is installed on that system or not.
Use pip to install PyInstaller:
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$ pip install pyinstaller |
Step 2: Verify PyInstaller Installation
To confirm that PyInstaller is installed successfully, print the PyInstaller version. The following command should show the installed version:
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$ pyinstaller --version |
Step 3: Create Your Python Script
Next, create the Python script that you want to make portable. Let’s assume you have a simple Python script with the name ‘my_script.py’.
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def greet(): print("Hello, World!") greet() |
Step 4: Convert Your Python Script to an Executable using PyInstaller
Now comes the crucial part – converting your Python script into an executable. Use the following command to do so:
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$ pyinstaller my_script.py |
This will create a ‘dist/’ directory where you can find the standalone executable.
Step 5: Run Your Standalone Executable on Any System
The standalone executable located in the ‘dist/’ directory can run on any system without the need for Python or dependencies to be installed. It is now fully portable.
Full Code:
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def greet(): print("Hello, World!") greet() |
Save this code as my_script.py.
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$ pip install pyinstaller $ pyinstaller --version $ pyinstaller my_script.py |
Conclusion
As demonstrated, making Python portable allows running Python scripts on any system without installing Python and the required dependencies. This significantly enhances distribution and usage convenience.
PyInstaller plays a crucial role in this process, and learning to use it effectively proves immensely beneficial. Always remember that with great power comes great responsibility.
Just because you can compile your scripts into executable binaries does not mean you should do it all the time. Use this feature judiciously for maximum impact and efficiency.