python:installation - chunhualiao/public-docs GitHub Wiki

python

The Python installation path /Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions/3.12/bin/python3 indicates you have Python installed via the official Python installer from python.org.

Here's how the different installation paths differ:

/Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/

• Source: Official Python installer from python.org
• Type: Framework installation (macOS-specific packaging)
• Location: System-wide installation in /Library/Frameworks/
• Management: Managed by the official Python installer
• Characteristics:
  • Self-contained framework bundle
  • Includes Python interpreter, standard library, and tools
  • Typically the most "official" Python installation
  • Good compatibility with macOS-specific features

/usr/bin/python3

• Source: System Python (comes with macOS)
• Type: System-level installation
• Management: Managed by Apple/macOS updates
• Characteristics:
  • Often an older version
  • May be restricted or modified by Apple
  • Not recommended for development work
  • Can be affected by macOS system updates

/opt/homebrew/bin/python3

• Source: Homebrew package manager
• Type: Package manager installation
• Management: Managed via brew install python
• Characteristics:
  • Easy to update and manage with Homebrew
  • Popular among developers
  • Good integration with other Homebrew packages
  • Located in /opt/homebrew/ on Apple Silicon Macs

Your current setup with the official Python.org installer is perfectly fine and is actually one of the most reliable ways to have Python installed on macOS. The framework installation provides excellent compatibility and is well-maintained.