Python Package Index

Definition

The Python Package Index (PyPI) is a repository of software for the Python programming language. It allows users to find and install packages developed by the Python community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. PyPI hosts thousands of third-party packages that can be installed using pip.
2. The standard command to install a package from PyPI is 'pip install <package_name>'.
3. Developers can upload their own packages to PyPI for others to use.
4. Each package on PyPI includes metadata such as version, description, and dependencies.
5. PyPI helps in managing dependencies and ensuring compatibility between different packages.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of the Python Package Index (PyPI)?
• How do you install a package from PyPI using pip?
• What kind of information is included in the metadata of a package on PyPI?

Related terms

pip: A package installer for Python that allows you to install and manage additional libraries and dependencies not included in the standard library.

__init__.py: A special Python file used to mark a directory as a package, allowing it to be imported as a module.

__main__.py: __main__.py is an optional file that specifies what should happen when running a module directly with python -m <module>.