Install and Manage Multiple Python Versions on Windows Using pyenv-win

Managing multiple Python versions on Windows can be a challenge especially when you're switching between projects that require different environments. That’s where pyenv-win comes in.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to install pyenv-win using PowerShell, install Python versions, switch between them, and validate everything step by step. Ideal for Python developers looking to keep their workflow clean and organized on Windows.

What is pyenv-win?

pyenv-win is a Python version management tool for Windows. It allows you to:

• Install and switch between multiple Python versions
• Set global or project-specific versions
• Avoid conflicts between projects

It’s the Windows counterpart of the popular UNIX tool pyenv.

Why pyenv-win Is a Must for Python Developers

• Install multiple Python versions side-by-side
• Switch between them effortlessly
• Test code with different Python versions
• Keep environments isolated and clean

How to Install pyenv-win on Windows Using PowerShell

Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator

Right-click the Start Menu → Select Windows PowerShell (Admin).

Step 2: Run the pyenv-win Install Script

Invoke-WebRequest -UseBasicParsing -Uri "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/pyenv-win/pyenv-win/master/pyenv-win/install-pyenv-win.ps1" -OutFile "./install-pyenv-win.ps1"; &"./install-pyenv-win.ps1"

This downloads and installs pyenv-win to your user directory.

Step 3: Reopen PowerShell

Close and reopen PowerShell so that environment variables take effect.

 Verify Installation

pyenv --version

You should see the installed version of pyenv-win, confirming successful setup.

☑️ Install and Manage Python Versions Using pyenv-win

View All Available Python Versions:

pyenv install -l

Install a Specific Version:

pyenv install 3.13.3

Set Global Python Version:

pyenv global 3.13.3

Set Local Python Version for a Project:

cd D:\Projects\MyApp pyenv local 3.10.9

Check Active Python Version and Path:

pyenv version

Output:

3.13.3 (set by C:\Users\YourName\.pyenv\pyenv-win\.python-version)

To see the actual Python path being used:

python -c "import sys; print(sys.executable)"

Example:

C:\Users\YourName\.pyenv\pyenv-win\versions\3.13.3\python.exe 

☑️ Other Useful pyenv-win Commands

Real-World Example:

cd D:\Code\ProjectA
pyenv local 3.9.13

cd D:\Code\ProjectB
pyenv local 3.11.2

Each project now runs with its correct Python version.

Uninstall a Python Version:

pyenv uninstall 3.13.3

Best Practices:

• Use pyenv local for project-specific environments
• Share .python-version in version control
• Use python -c "import sys; print(sys.executable)" to confirm Python path
• Restart PowerShell if anything feels out of sync

⚠️ Common Error: "Running Scripts Is Disabled on This System"

When running the install script, you might see this error:

Error: Running scripts is disabled on this system.

 Solution:

In PowerShell (Admin), run the following command:

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

• Type Y and press Enter when prompted.
• This allows local scripts to run, but still protects against unsigned remote scripts.

Troubleshooting:

With pyenv-win, managing Python on Windows becomes as easy as on UNIX systems. Install multiple versions, switch between them effortlessly, and keep your projects isolated and organized.