SmartScreen blocked the installer. What now?

If the publisher is JetBrains and the file is downloaded from the official CDN, click More info → Run anyway.

How to uninstall PyCharm?

Open Apps & Features in Windows, select PyCharm and uninstall. You may remove settings directories if prompted.

How to Install PyCharm on Windows (Step-by-Step)

Q: Do I need admin rights?

Admin rights are recommended for all-users installation and PATH changes. You can install per user without admin permissions.

Q: How do I add a Python interpreter?

Create a new project and select an interpreter (Virtualenv, Conda, system Python, or WSL) via Settings → Python Interpreter.

Follow this quick guide to install PyCharm 2026.1.1 on Windows 10/11 (64-bit), choose recommended options, and run your first project.

Download Installer (64-bit) Alternative: Toolbox App

File: pycharm-2026.1.1.exe • OS: Windows 10 / 11 (64-bit)

Last updated: --

Prerequisites

Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit)
Admin permissions to install software
Recommended: Python 3.x installed (optional; you can add later)

Install steps

1) Download the official installer

Click the button above or download directly. The link points to the JetBrains CDN.

2) Run the .exe as Administrator

Right-click the installer → Run as administrator. If SmartScreen appears, choose More info → Run anyway if you trust the source (JetBrains).

3) Choose installation options

Create Desktop Shortcut (optional)
Add "bin" folder to PATH (recommended)
Create Associations: .py (optional)
Install for all users (if needed)

4) Complete setup and launch PyCharm

Finish the wizard, then open PyCharm from Start Menu. On first launch, you can import settings or continue with defaults.

5) Configure a Python interpreter

Create a new project and choose an interpreter: venv, Conda, system Python, or WSL. See Data Science setup for Conda/WSL tips.

6) Verify installation

Run a simple script in a new project. Check Run and Debug to confirm everything works.

Post-install tips

Install plugins only as needed to keep performance strong
Enable auto-save and configure code style
Sign in to sync settings across devices (optional)

FAQ

Do I need admin rights?
Admin rights are recommended to install for all users and add PATH. Without admin, choose per-user installation.

SmartScreen blocked the installer. What should I do?
Click More info → Run anyway if the publisher is JetBrains and you trust the source (JetBrains CDN).

How do I add a Python interpreter?
Create a new project → select New Environment using Virtualenv (or Conda) → choose base Python. You can also add a system interpreter later via Settings → Python Interpreter.

Can I uninstall PyCharm?
Yes. Go to Apps & Features in Windows, select PyCharm and uninstall. Remove settings directories if prompted.

Ready to code?

Download PyCharm 2026.1.1 (64-bit) Troubleshooting guide