Python Unplugged: Installing Packages Without Internet Access

In today’s digital age, it might seem unimaginable to work without internet connectivity. However, there are scenarios, particularly in secure or remote environments, where internet access is restricted or unavailable. In such cases, installing Python packages can be a challenge. This blog post provides a step-by-step guide on how to install Python packages on a system without internet access.

Step 1: Download the Packages on an Internet-Enabled Computer Before you can install Python packages on a server without internet, you need to download the necessary files. This can be done using a machine that has internet access:Open your terminal and use the pip download command followed by the package name. For instance:

pip download pandas

Step 2: Transfer the Packages Once you have all the required .whl files (Python wheel files), transfer them to the target server. You can use methods like USB drives, or secure file transfer protocols such as SCP (Secure Copy Protocol).

Step 3: Install the Packages With the .whl files on your target server, navigate to the directory where these files are stored. Install them by running:

pip install pandas.whl

Step 4: Verify the Installation After the installation, it is a good practice to verify that the packages were installed correctly. For example, you can check the installation of pandas by running:

python 
>>import pandas as np

Useful Tips

• Always ensure the compatibility of the Python version on your server with the .whl files.
• Keep your USB or other transfer devices secure to avoid introducing security risks to isolated environments.