# Python script basics

> Get the basics of running Python scripts on your hosting account, including permissions, file extensions and versions.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/programming-languages/python-script-basics/

**Python script basics**\
Learn the essentials of using Python on ruachost.com servers, including file permissions, extensions, and running different Python versions.

This article provides guidance for working with Python script files on ruachost.com servers.

**What permissions do I need to set for my Python script files?**\
The correct permissions depend on the script’s function:

- **Python CGI scripts** (publicly accessible via the web): set permissions to `755` (read, write, execute for the user; read and execute for group and world). Do **not** give world write permissions.
- **Command-line-only Python scripts**: set permissions to `700` (read, write, execute for the user; no permissions for group and world).

**What file extensions can I use for Python scripts?**\
Python scripts can use `.py` or `.cgi`, depending on their purpose:

- CGI scripts generating web output for public access use `.cgi`.
- Scripts run only from the command line, or scripts not generating web output, use `.py`.
- **Tip:** To use `.py` for CGI scripts, you must configure an Apache handler.

**What version of Python is installed on ruachost.com servers?**\
To check the default Python version, run:

```
python -V
```

**What is the path to the Python executable?**\
The default Python executable is located at `/usr/bin/python`. Since `/usr/bin` is in the default path, you can usually run Python scripts without specifying the full path:

```
python filename
```

**Running different Python versions**\
Multiple Python versions are available. To see them, run:

```
ls /usr/bin/python*
```

To run a script using Python 3, for example, type:

```
python3 filename
```

**Note:** Shared hosting servers offer a Python Selector in cPanel to switch Python versions. On CentOS 7 shared hosting servers, the Python Selector is the only method to use different Python versions.

**Can I use the mod_python Apache module?**\
mod_python is **not supported** on shared hosting accounts. On VPS or dedicated servers, you can install and use mod_python.

**More information**\
For official Python documentation, visit [Python Docs](http://docs.python.org/).