Virtual Environments (Slideshow)

Problems Solved

• Python installation is global

• Worse: pip installed packages are global

• Packages available in different versions

• Different projects might require a package in different versions ⟶ conflicts!

Solution

• Creates “sandboxed” Python environment

• Integrates nicely with pip

• Integrates nicely with version control

  • Nobody wants to version control an entire environment

• “Freeze” ⟶ Manifest file

  • Usually called requirements.txt

  • Version controlled inside (together with) the project

  • Updated as requirements change