The most common error reported amongst developers is the following: The Pip Installation Packages (PIP) is a Python package management system used to install and manage its software packages. However, while using it to perform certain tasks, like installing another package using the command “pip install Django”, the aforementioned error is encountered. In this post, we are going to address this issue so that you may continue with your Python development as planned.

Why is Pip Command Not Found in Windows

When a user encounters the “Pip is not recognized as an internal or external command” error, it is due to one of the following reasons:

Pip has not been added to the environment variables.The pip environment variable has incorrect values.

Environment variables are variables that can be used across your system. Just like in programming, variables contain a value that can be changed or called when needed. Environment variables are the same, but can be used across the entire scope. When pp is not recognized, it is probably because the command line is unable to call on the actual program because of the missing or incorrect path. Let us show you how to check whether a path for “pip” is present inside the Windows environment variables list.

How to Check Environment Variable for Pip

The most convenient method to check that pip was added to the PATH variable is using the Command Prompt. Follow these steps to check whether it is present or not: You can also view the environment variables from the Settings app, and through PowerShell. The username and the “XXX” are dependent upon your user account name and the installed Python version. If you find that such a variable doesn’t exist, then it means that the issue is caused because of a missing pip variable in PATH. However, if one does exist, then it is likely that its value is misconfigured. Either way, continue to perform the following mitigation tasks to correct the error and get on with your Python development.

Fix PIP Not Recognized in Windows

Add Environment Variable for PIP

This section covers 2 ways to add the environment variable for PIP. Of course, you only need to perform this if the Python directory did not show up in the list of environment variables when you checked for them using the Command Prompt above.

Add PIP Environment Variable using System Properties

This method shows how to add the PIP environment variable to PATH using Windows GUI. The environment variables will now be added to PATH.

Add PIP Environment Variable using Command Prompt

You can also add the PIP environment variable using the Command Prompt in just a few commands. Here is how:

Edit Environment Variable for Python

If the Python directory did show up when you were checking the variables list, and the PIP command still isn’t working, then it is probably misconfigured. Use the following steps to edit the existing PATH variable:

Ensure PIP is Included in Python Installation

Python has different components installed. Ensure that PIP is one of the installed components using these steps: If this resolution did not work for you, you can try and reinstall Python all together. The modification wizard will now launch. Any newly selected packages and variables will now install.

Reinstall Python with PATH Variable

Another workaround for the error prompt is to reinstall Python on your PC. When installing Python, it gives you the option to place the environment variables into PATH. Follow these steps to uninstall Python and then reinstall it properly. A fresh environment variable path has now been added to the system. Check to see if your issue has been resolved and that PIP is recognized now. The uninstallation wizard will now run and remove Python from your PC. The installation will now begin.

Install Python Package without PIP Variable

If none of these solutions have worked for you, then another workaround is to install a Python package without adding the PIP variable. It can be done using a simple cmdlet in Command Prompt. As you can see in the image above, the Django package has been installed without adding the pip variable in PATH.

Final Words

The Pip Installation Packages is a crucial command for managing Python libraries and packages. Therefore, you need to ensure that it is working correctly on your PC in order to maximize productivity. Let us know which method from above worked for you in resolving the issue. Also see:

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