Boosting Package Installation on Windows with pipwin

Boosting Package Installation on Windows with pipwin

If you’re a Windows user and have struggled with slow package installations using the pip package manager, then pipwin is here to save the day. In this article, we will explore pipwin, a powerful tool that enhances package installations on Windows by providing unofficial Python package binaries.

What is pipwin?

pipwin is a complementary tool for pip specifically designed for Windows users. Developed by Christoph Gohlke, it leverages his collection of unofficial Python package binaries for Windows, available at http://www.lfd.uci.edu/~gohlke/pythonlibs/. This means that with pipwin, you can install popular Python packages without having to compile them from source on Windows.

QuickStart

To get started with pipwin, follow these simple steps:

1. Install pipwin by running the command pip install pipwin.
2. Search for a package using the pipwin search command, for example, pipwin search cv.
3. Choose the package you want to install from the search results.
4. Install the package using the pipwin install command, for example, pipwin install opencv-python.
5. Enjoy fast and hassle-free package installations on Windows!

Advanced Usage

pipwin offers additional features that make it a versatile and convenient tool:

• Building a package cache: On the first run, pipwin builds a cache of available packages in ~/.pipwin, allowing for quick and easy package searches and installations.
• Cache refresh: You can force a cache rebuild using the pipwin refresh command.
• Listing available packages: Use the pipwin list command to see a comprehensive list of all available packages.
• Download-only mode: If you prefer to download packages without installing them immediately, you can use the pipwin download command, specifying a destination if desired.
• Batch installations: pipwin supports installation from pipwin requirements files using the -r flag. Simply use the pipwin install -r command, followed by the path to your requirements file.
• Uninstalling packages: Although pipwin specializes in installation, you can also use the regular pip package manager for uninstalling packages. Simply use the pipwin uninstall command, followed by the package name.

Conclusion

pipwin is a game-changer for Windows users when it comes to package installations. With its ability to install unofficial Python package binaries quickly, it streamlines the process and saves time. By utilizing pipwin, Windows users can enjoy the convenience of pip package installations without the need for source compilation. Try out pipwin today and experience the power of hassle-free package management on Windows.

References:
– pipwin repository: https://github.com/lepisma/pipwin
– Christoph Gohlke’s Python package binaries: http://www.lfd.uci.edu/~gohlke/pythonlibs/

License:
This project is licensed under the BSD License.