Everything You Need to Know to Download Python 3.9

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Download Python 3.9: What You Need to Know Before Getting Started

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

  • Python 3.9 introduced important new features like enhanced type hinting and dictionary update operators.
  • Official binary installers for Python 3.9 are no longer provided; source builds are the primary option.
  • Support for Python 3.9 includes security fixes only until October 2025, then it moves to end-of-life.
  • Consider newer Python versions like 3.10+ for active updates, security patches, and better ecosystem compatibility.
  • Legacy or specific needs justify downloading and building Python 3.9 from source safely.

Table of Contents

What is Python 3.9?

Python 3.9, officially released in October 2020, is a major iteration of the Python programming language that introduced several notable new features and performance improvements.

These updates aimed to enhance Python’s usability, add concise syntax features, and optimize performance across various use cases.

Key Features of Python 3.9

  • Type Hinting Generics in Standard Collections: Python 3.9 allows using built-in collection types (list, dict, set) directly for type hinting, improving code readability and type checker compatibility.
  • New String Methods: Introduction of str.removeprefix() and str.removesuffix() methods to make string manipulations more intuitive.
  • Dictionary Merge & Update Operators: New operators (| and |=) simplify dictionary merging and updating operations.
  • Improved Module Features: Inclusion of new modules, such as the zoneinfo module for time zone support, enhancing Python’s standard library.
  • Parser Improvements: Python 3.9 introduced a new PEG parser replacing the traditional LL(1) parser, allowing for more flexible grammar.

These updates alone made Python 3.9 an attractive version for developers looking for modern language features and better performance.

Current Support Status for Python 3.9

While Python 3.9 introduced important enhancements, its current support lifecycle is limited. According to the Python Software Foundation, the last full bugfix release for Python 3.9 was version 3.9.13.

As of today, Python 3.9 no longer receives regular bug fixes or binary installers for direct download.

Instead, Python 3.9 receives security fixes only, which are released irregularly and primarily in source-only form. This limited security support will continue until October 2025, after which Python 3.9 moves further towards end-of-life status.

Therefore, for production environments or ongoing projects, it’s recommended to consider newer Python versions with active maintenance and bugfixes.

For the most up-to-date details on Python 3.9’s support, see the official Python release page: Python 3.9.14 Release.

How to Download Python 3.9

Official Python 3.9 Download Options

You can still download Python 3.9 source code and documentation from the official Python website:

  • Source Code: Available in compressed archives (.tar.xz, .zip formats) for building Python 3.9 from source.
  • HTML Documentation: Comprehensive documentation set for Python 3.9 is still accessible and provides valuable information for users upgrading or working with this version.

Visit the official Python 3.9 download page here: Download Python 3.9

Lack of Official Binary Installers

It is crucial to be aware that official binary installers for Python 3.9 are no longer provided. This means that prebuilt executables for Windows, macOS, or Linux distributions might be unavailable or deprecated.

Developers on those platforms need to:

  • Build Python 3.9 from source code manually.
  • Use third-party package managers or system repositories that might offer Python 3.9 binaries.

Sources like Code Rivers provide useful guides on downloading or compiling older Python versions but always ensure you trust the source to avoid security risks.

Python 3.9 Release Archive

For those interested in reviewing all incremental updates and patch releases of Python 3.9, you can browse the full version log at: Python 3.9 Version Log.

Should You Download Python 3.9 Today?

Given the context of limited updates and no official binary support, you may wonder whether it’s worthwhile to download and use Python 3.9 at this stage. Here are some practical points to consider:

When to Use Python 3.9

  • Legacy Project Requirements: If you maintain or contribute to projects originally built with Python 3.9, downloading and using this version may be necessary for compatibility reasons.
  • Learning Specific Features: If your goal is to explore Python 3.9-specific features or test code behavior in this environment, downloading Python 3.9 source and building it can be a valuable learning experience.
  • Development Across Environments: Some controlled environments or enterprise settings may standardize on Python 3.9 for consistency.

When to Choose a Newer Python Version

  • Active Development & Bug Fixes: If you want the latest features, optimizations, and regular bug fixes, upgrading to Python 3.10 or later is recommended.
  • Improved Support & Ecosystem: Newer versions have better support from third-party packages, IDEs, and tools.
  • Security Considerations: Using the latest Python versions ensures quicker access to critical security patches.

For official Python downloads and to explore more recent versions, visit: Python Releases.

Practical Steps to Download and Setup Python 3.9 from Source

If you decide that Python 3.9 is the right choice for you, here’s a quick guide on how to download and set it up by building from source:

Step 1: Download the Source Code

  • Access the Python 3.9 source archive from the official documentation page: Python 3.9 Source.
  • Choose the appropriate archive type: .tar.xz for Linux/macOS or .zip for Windows.

Step 2: Extract the Archive

Use your system’s archive extraction tool or command line utilities (tar -xf Python-3.9.x.tar.xz on Unix-like systems).

Step 3: Build and Install Python 3.9

Open a terminal or command prompt.
Navigate to the extracted source directory.

Run the following commands: 

./configure
make
sudo make install

Note: On Windows, building from source requires additional tools like Visual Studio or MSVC build tools.

Step 4: Verify Your Installation

Once installed, confirm your Python version by running: 

python3.9 --version

You should see an output similar to:
Python 3.9.13

Leveraging Python 3.9 in Your Projects with TomTalksPython

At TomTalksPython, we understand that mastering Python requires not only installing the right version but also effectively using it with powerful tools and resources.

Whether you opt for Python 3.9 or a newer variant, we can help you maximize your coding journey with expertly curated content and guides:

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

While Python 3.9 has been a pivotal version and remains relevant for legacy projects, its diminishing support and lack of regular updates suggest that developers should consider migrating to newer, actively maintained Python versions for most applications.

However, for specific needs around features introduced in Python 3.9 or when working within constrained environments, downloading and using Python 3.9 from source remains a viable pathway.

TomTalksPython is dedicated to empowering our community with clear, actionable insights to make informed decisions about their Python learning and development path.

As new versions emerge, we continuously update our resources to guide you through shifting landscapes smoothly.

References and Further Reading

FAQ

Is Python 3.9 still supported?

Python 3.9 currently receives only security fixes until October 2025. No regular bug fixes or binary installers are provided, signaling a move towards end-of-life status after that date.

Can I install Python 3.9 using official binaries?

No, official binary installers for Python 3.9 are no longer available. You must build it from source or use trusted third-party package managers that might still provide binaries.

Why should I consider upgrading from Python 3.9?

Newer Python versions offer better support, more features, active bug fixes, and quicker security patches to keep your projects secure and efficient.

Where can I find Python 3.9 source code?

The official Python documentation provides source archives for Python 3.9 here: Download Python 3.9.

Is Python 3.9 suitable for new projects?

Generally, no. For new projects, using actively maintained versions like Python 3.10 or later is recommended to benefit from ongoing improvements and community support.