cpython

Introduction to CPython

CPython is the default and most widely used implementation of the Python programming language. With the release of Python version 3.14.0 alpha 1, the project continues to support developers and programmers worldwide with powerful, versatile tools for software development.

General Information

CPython's central hub for information includes various resources:

• Website: The official website for Python is python.org, providing downloadable Python kits and usage information.
• Source Code: CPython's source code is hosted on GitHub, where users can explore and contribute.
• Issue Tracker: Maintains records of bugs or issues, tracked at GitHub Issues.
• Documentation: Comprehensive documentation can be found at docs.python.org, detailing usage, modules, and more.
• Developer's Guide: For those interested in contributing, the Developer Guide offers complete contributing instructions.

Contributing to CPython

Contributions to CPython are important for its growth and development. Interested individuals should refer to the Developer Guide, which outlines how to begin contributing and understanding the development process.

Using Python

Python installation packages and guidelines for making the most out of Python across platforms are available on python.org.

Build Instructions

For those looking to build Python from source, here are basic instructions:

• Unix, Linux, BSD, macOS, and Cygwin: Use the following commands to compile and install Python:

  ./configure
  make
  make test
  sudo make install
  

• Windows: Detailed instructions are available in the PCbuild directory on CPython's GitHub. Special instructions for building a Windows installer are located in Tools/msi.

Python builds can be optimized using Profile Guided Optimization (PGO) and Link Time Optimization (LTO), which enhance performance based on profiling data and cross-module optimizations, respectively.

What's New in Python 3.14

Python 3.14 introduces various updates and changes. A comprehensive overview of these changes can be read in the What's New in Python 3.14 document. For those wanting an exhaustive list of changes, the detailed change log is available.

Documentation and Testing

Python 3.14 documentation is continually updated online and is available in different formats, including HTML and PDF for easy access.

To ensure stability and functionality, testing the interpreter is crucial. This can be accomplished with the make test command, with additional options for resource-intensive tests and verbose output for diagnosing any issues.

Installing Multiple Versions

For developers working with multiple Python versions, tools are available to install different versions side-by-side. Careful configuration ensures that the primary Python executable remains unaffected.

Release Schedule and Legal Information

The release schedule for Python versions, including 3.14, is detailed in PEP 745. Legal and licensing information is also crucial; CPython's code is free from GNU General Public License (GPL) constraints, making it suitable for proprietary projects. Moreover, users are protected with a broad range of licenses ensuring safe and lawful application development.