Why Install Conda from Conda-Forge?
Conda is a powerful package manager for Python and other languages, commonly used for data science, machine learning, and software development. While the default Anaconda distribution is popular, the Conda-Forge version provides a lightweight and community-driven alternative.
If you're using an Apple Silicon Mac (M1/M2), installing Miniforge3 from Conda-Forge ensures better performance and compatibility.
Conda-Forge can use under
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Download Miniforge3 (Conda-Forge Version)
Go to the official website: Conda-Forge Miniforge
Download the installer for macOS (ARM64), which is optimized for Apple Silicon.
2. Install Miniforge3
Once downloaded, open a terminal and run:
bash ~/Downloads/Miniforge3-MacOSX-arm64.shFollow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Verify Installation
After installation, check if Conda is installed:
/Users/your-username/miniforge3/bin/conda --version(Replace your-username with your actual username.)
If Conda is installed correctly, you should see the version output.
Fix: "Command Not Found" Issue After Installation
If you get a "command not found" error when running conda, follow these steps:
1. Add Conda to PATH
Open your terminal and run:
echo 'export PATH="/Users/your-username/miniforge3/bin:$PATH"' >> ~/.zshrc
source ~/.zshrcIf using bash instead of zsh, replace ~/.zshrc with ~/.bashrc.
2. Initialize Conda for Your Shell
Run the following command:
/Users/your-username/miniforge3/bin/conda init zshFor bash, use:
/Users/your-username/miniforge3/bin/conda init bashThen restart your terminal.
3. Test Conda
Try these commands:
conda --version
conda infoIf they work, your installation is now properly configured!
Conclusion
Using Miniforge3 from Conda-Forge ensures a lightweight, Apple Silicon-optimized Conda installation. If you run into issues with conda not being found, setting the correct PATH and initializing Conda should fix it. Enjoy your Conda-powered development environment on macOS!
