# Python was not found; run without arguments to install from the Microsoft Store

**Code:** `Python not found` · **Category:** Python · **Seen on:** Python

Windows ran the Microsoft Store “App execution alias” instead of a real Python installation.

## Meaning

Windows ships stub python.exe/python3.exe aliases. If Python isn’t installed or not on PATH, the stub prints this message.

## Common causes

- Python not installed
- Installed without “Add python.exe to PATH”
- App execution aliases shadowing the real install

## Quick fix

1. Install from python.org and tick “Add python.exe to PATH”
2. Use the launcher: py -3
3. Disable the aliases: Settings → Apps → Advanced app settings → App execution aliases

## Detailed fix by platform

### Windows

1. `py --list` shows installed Pythons; `where python` shows which one runs

## How to diagnose

1. **Installed** — py --list
2. **PATH** — where python

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Source: [WhatIsMyError](https://whatismyerror.com/errors/python/python-was-not-found)