pip is the package installer for Python that can install packages from the Python Package Index and other indexes. However, some of the users may find it difficult to install pip using the command prompt on Microsoft Windows. According to the affected users, the error notice says “pip is not recognized as an internal or external command”. This particular issue can happen on all the Windows OS versions like Windows 7/8/10. So, if you’re also facing the same error then check this troubleshooting guide.

If in case, you’re familiar with installing the Python packaging then it may not be hard to understand that the Python Package Index (PyPI) is a repository of software for the Python programming language. Meanwhile, installing pip using the command prompt is quite easy but if you’re getting errors as mentioned, there are a couple of solutions available that you can try on your PC. So, without wasting any more time, let’s get into it.

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What is pip?

pip is a package manager for Python which allows you to install additional libraries and dependencies that aren’t distributed with the standard library. Additionally, you can also manage those libraries and dependencies. The Python Package Management for the pip which has been included with the Python installer versions and can be used for Python projects.

How to Fix PIP Not Recognized As Internal or External Command

Now, coming to the actual topic, the particular error message can appear if the pip installation not added in the system variables and if the installation path is added incorrectly. If you also feel the same, try the following steps properly.

1. Check and Add pip to the path variable via CMD

  • Press Windows + R key to open up the Run dialog box.
  • Next, type cmd and hit Enter.
  • The command prompt window will open.
  • Type echo %PATH% and press Enter.
  • Now, if you find C:\Python37\Scripts path on your Windows that means it’s already added.
  • If not added, then type the following command and hit Enter.

setx PATH “%PATH%;C:\Python37\Scripts”

  • Next, you will need to open the Python package without adding the pip variable by the following steps.
  • Type the below command and hit Enter. Kindly change the [packagename] with the actual one that you want to add.

python -m pip install [packagename]

  • You’re done.

2. Check if pip is included in Python Installer

  • Press Windows + R key to open up the Run dialog box.
  • Next, type appwiz.cpl and hit Enter.
  • The Program and Features option will open.
  • Now, right-click on Python Set-up > Click on Change.
  • Click on Modify > Enable pip checkbox from the Optional Features.
  • Enable Associate files with Python checkbox.
  • Click on Install > Follow the on-screen instructions and complete the installation process.

If in case, the pip is not recognized as an internal or external command error is still appearing then type the following command on the command prompt and hit Enter.

Note:

python -m ensurepip –default-pip

  • That’s it.

We hope you’ve successfully fixed this particular error by following the troubleshooting guide. For more queries, you can comment below.