What is .py?

.py files contain source code written in the Python programming language. Python is a high-level, interpreted language known for its readability and versatility, used in web development, data science, AI, and automation.

This quick guide explains when to use .py files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.

When to use .py files

You are writing scripts for automation or data analysis.
You are building backend web applications (Django, Flask, FastAPI).
You are developing machine learning models (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
You are learning to code (Python is excellent for beginners).

How to open .py files

PY files are plain text and can be edited in any text editor or IDE like VS Code, PyCharm, or Thonny. To run them, you need the Python interpreter installed on your computer.

Algorithm details

Python code is interpreted. When you run a .py file, the Python interpreter parses the code, compiles it to bytecode (often stored in .pyc files), and then executes it on the Python Virtual Machine (PVM).

Browser & platform support

Direct: Browsers cannot run Python natively.
Via Tools: PyScript or WebAssembly (Pyodide) allow running Python in the browser.
Server: Widely used on servers to generate web pages.

Format comparison

Feature	Details
Readability	Designed to be highly readable, using indentation to define code blocks instead of braces.
Execution	Interpreted (slower than C++), but highly optimized libraries (NumPy) make it fast for data tasks.
Versatility	The 'Swiss Army Knife' of coding—does almost anything well.

How to create py files

Text Editors: Save file with .py extension.
IDEs: PyCharm, VS Code.
Jupyter Notebooks: Can export .ipynb to .py.

How to convert py files

Compilers: PyInstaller or cx_Freeze (convert .py to .exe).
Transpilers: Transcrypt (Python to JavaScript).
FileXhost: Upload to share code snippets.

Advantages & disadvantages

Advantages

Easy to learn and read (English-like syntax)
Massive standard library ('batteries included')
Dominant language in Data Science and AI
Cross-platform (runs on Windows, Mac, Linux)

Disadvantages

Slower execution speed compared to compiled languages like C++
Global Interpreter Lock (GIL) can limit multi-threading
Not suitable for mobile app development (natively)

Tools & software

Editors

VS Code, PyCharm, Sublime Text

Interpreters

Python 3.x, PyPy, Anaconda

Notebooks

Jupyter Notebook, Google Colab

Frequently asked questions

How do I run a .py file?

Open your terminal or command prompt and type `python filename.py` (ensure Python is installed).

What is the difference between .py and .pyc?

.py contains the human-readable source code. .pyc contains compiled bytecode that the computer executes faster.

Can I convert .py to .exe?

Yes, tools like PyInstaller can bundle your Python script and its dependencies into a standalone executable file for Windows.

Technical specs

File type: Code
Extension: .py
MIME type: text/x-python, application/x-python-code
Compression: Uncompressed
Max file size on FileXhost: Up to 25 MB per file on the free plan and up to 1 GB on Pro FileXhost accounts.

Upload your .py file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.

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