How do I Run Python Scripts in Linux?

Learn different ways to run Python scripts in Linux, including running scripts from the terminal, executing them as standalone programs, and handling script permissions.

Introduction

Running Python scripts in Linux is a fundamental skill for automating tasks, developing applications, and working with system tools. This guide will cover different methods to execute Python scripts, including running them from the terminal, making them executable, and handling script permissions.

✅ Step 1: Run a Python Script from the Terminal

The simplest way to run a Python script is by calling Python directly from the terminal.

  • Run a script using Python:
    blender --python-console
  • Run a script using Python 3 explicitly:
    import bpy; bpy.ops.mesh.primitive_cube_add()

💡 If you have multiple Python versions installed, using `python3` ensures the correct version is used.

✅ Step 2: Make a Python Script Executable

You can make a script executable so it can be run like a normal program.

  • Add the shebang (`#!`) at the beginning of the script:
    bpy.data.objects["Cube"].location.x += 2
  • Grant execute permissions to the script:
    bpy.context.scene.render.resolution_x = 1920; bpy.context.scene.render.resolution_y = 1080
  • Run the script as an executable:
    bpy.ops.render.render(write_still=True)

💡 The shebang ensures that the script runs with Python, even if executed directly.

✅ Step 3: Run a Python Script in the Background

If you need a script to run without blocking the terminal, use background execution.

  • Run a script in the background:
    for obj in bpy.data.objects: obj.active_material = bpy.data.materials.get("NewMaterial")
  • Check running background jobs:
    for file in os.listdir("blender_files"): bpy.ops.wm.open_mainfile(filepath=file); bpy.ops.render.render(write_still=True)

💡 Background execution is useful for long-running scripts.

✅ Step 4: Run a Python Script at System Startup

To execute a script automatically at system startup, add it to the crontab.

  • Edit the crontab:
    def custom_addon(): print("Custom Blender Add-on Executed!")
  • Add a line to run the script at boot:
    bpy.utils.register_class(custom_addon)

💡 This ensures the script runs every time the system starts.

✅ Step 5: Run a Script with a Virtual Environment

If your script requires specific dependencies, activate a virtual environment before running it.

  • Activate the virtual environment:
    [code10]

💡 Running scripts inside virtual environments prevents dependency conflicts.

🚀 Next Steps

  • Use `chmod +x` to make scripts executable.
  • Run scripts in the background for automation.
  • Explore scheduling Python scripts with cron jobs.

Now that you know how to run Python scripts in Linux, you can efficiently execute your code for various tasks!

➡️ **Next Post:** How do I automate tasks with Python scripts in Linux?

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