Fix "externally-managed-environment" Error when using pip3 in ubuntu 24.04

When using Ubuntu 24.04, many developers encounter an error when trying to install Python packages with pip3. The error message, "externally-managed-environment," can be confusing, especially if you're accustomed to using pip3 for managing dependencies in previous Ubuntu versions. This issue arises because Ubuntu 24.04 now implements stricter package management practices

pip3 is the default package management system for Python 3 in many Linux distributions, including Ubuntu. It enables users to install and manage software packages written in Python from the Python Package Index (PyPI), as well as other repositories. The name pip3 specifically refers to the version of pip used for Python 3 environments, distinguishing it from pip, which may be used for Python 2 environments.

If pip3 is not installed by default, you can install it using:

Install a package:

Upgrade a package:

Uninstall a package:

Show installed packages:

APT (Advanced Package Tool) is the system-wide package manager for Ubuntu, which installs software packages for the operating system, including Python libraries. However, APT typically lags behind in package versions.

pip3 is specifically designed to handle Python packages and installs them into the Python environment (which could be system-wide or within a virtual environment). pip3 gives more control over the versions and packages you need for Python development.

When I run pip install <something> on a Linux machine, you may see a similar error to this:

This issue happens because python libraries should be installed on a virtual environment, so you will need to create the virtual environment in order to fix this issue, a great solutions is using pipx

pipx is a tool designed to help you install and run Python applications in isolated environments, allowing you to execute Python packages as standalone command-line tools. Unlike pip, which installs packages system-wide or in a virtual environment, pipx focuses on ensuring that each application you install is run in its own isolated environment, preventing conflicts between different packages.

pipx will provide you with:

You can install it by running:

Check the installation:

Then you can install your application like this:

You can install it with pip as well if it is available Install (if pip is available)

The ensurepath command ensures that pipx and installed applications are added to your system's PATH, so you can run them directly.

You can use APT to install the packages if the issue is not solved

Use pip in a virtual environment

After that create a virtual environment in your project directory:

Activate your virtual environment using this command (it modifies your PATH environment variable to include .venv/bin/):

Now, you can use pip install

pip remains one of the most essential tools for managing Python packages, but recent changes in Ubuntu 24.04 have introduced new challenges when using pip3, such as the "externally-managed-environment" error. This error stems from Ubuntu’s stricter control over system package management, making it harder to directly install Python packages without proper permissions. Fortunately, by understanding the root of this issue, you can apply simple fixes, such as using the --break-system-packages flag or opting for alternative tools like pipx, which allow you to run Python applications in isolated environments.

These workarounds not only resolve the immediate issues but also encourage better package management practices by isolating dependencies and minimizing conflicts. Whether you choose to stick with pip, leverage pipx for command-line tools, or explore other virtual environment managers, these approaches will ensure a smoother Python development experience on Ubuntu 24.04.