# pip on python3: Can't decompress data; zlib not available

- Published: 2014-12-08
- URL: https://notes.webutvikling.org/darn-installation-of-python-3-4
- Tags: pip, python, python3, virtualenv

## Getting pip3.4 to work

Want Python3.4 on your debian with virtualenv and pip? That's what I wanted. However, I didn't get pip automatically, and when I tried to install it, python gave me

### "Can't decompress data; zlib not available"

Spent a whole lot of time on this. Seems like installing 3.4 properly (with --with-zlib parameter when configuring) makes your life easier.

**Step 1) Install [Python3.4](https://www.python.org/downloads/release/python-342/)**

```bash
wget https://www.python.org/ftp/python/3.4.2/Python-3.4.2.tgz
tar -xvf Python-3.4.2.tgz
cd Python-3.4.2
./configure --with-zlib
sudo make
sudo make install
```

You should now have pip3.4, yes? and pyvenv-3.4? Good.

**Step 2) make the virtualenv and activate it**

Oh, yes. Python 3.4 comes with a virtualenv. It's called pyvenv. It works like it used to (except no --distribute flag)

```bash
pyvenv env
source env/bin/activate
```