Toolchain setup for scientific Python

Some scientific Python packages, especially those with compiled extensions, need a working C/C++ toolchain. Install the compiler tools for your operating system before building packages. Skip this page if you only install pre-built wheels and never compile extensions.

macOS

Install Xcode Command Line Tools, or the full Xcode developer environment from Apple:

xcode-select --install

Linux

On Ubuntu or Debian-based systems, install the base build tools:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install build-essential

Windows

Use WSL 2 with Ubuntu or another supported Linux distribution, then install the Linux build tools inside the WSL terminal. See the WSL installation guide.

sudo apt update
sudo apt install build-essential

Why this matters

• Some Python packages compile native code for speed or numerical performance.
• Compilers are often required for data analysis and scientific computing libraries.
• Installing the toolchain early avoids later build errors.