Skip to content

Environment Setup

This page covers installing Anaconda and creating a clean Python environment for Vertex AI development.

Back to Vertex AI Quickstart

1. Install Anaconda

Download Anaconda for your OS: https://www.anaconda.com/download/success

Windows Installation

  1. Pick Python 3.12 - 64-Bit Graphical Installer
  2. Click Next then Install for myself
  3. Choose your install location
  4. Add these shortcuts:
    • Add Anaconda to PATH
    • Register Anaconda3 as default Python 3.12
  5. Clear package cache upon completion

Anaconda vs Miniconda

  • Anaconda (~1 GB): Full distribution with many pre-installed packages
  • Miniconda (~100 MB): Minimal installer, packages installed as needed

Either works for this guide. Miniconda is lighter if you prefer minimal installs.

2. Create a Python Environment

Open your terminal and run these commands:

# Activate base and create a clean env
conda activate base
conda env list
conda create --name vertexai_env python=3.9  # accept prompts
conda activate vertexai_env

3. Install Vertex AI Python SDK

With your environment activated, install the SDK:

pip install google-cloud-aiplatform

Next Step

Continue to Workspace Setup to create your project folder and set up Jupyter Lab.