How to Install Flask on Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners)

Uploaded: Nov. 29 2025 | Modified: Nov. 29 2025

How to Install Flask on Windows 11 (Beginner-Friendly Step-by-Step Guide)

Flask is a lightweight and flexible Python web framework that's perfect for beginners. In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to install Flask on Windows 11, set up a virtual environment, and confirm your installation successfully.

1. Check Your Python Version

Before installing Flask, make sure Python is installed on your system. Run this command in Command Prompt (CMD):

C:\> python --version

If you don’t have Python installed, download it from the official Python website.

2. Create Your Application Directory

Create a new folder where your Flask project will live:

C:\> mkdir myapp

Then move into that directory:

C:\> cd myapp

Your path should now look like this:

C:\myapp>

3. Set Up a Virtual Environment

Create a virtual environment inside your project folder. This keeps your project dependencies isolated:

C:\myapp> py -3 -m venv .venv

Activate your virtual environment:

C:\myapp> .venv\Scripts\activate

You should now see (venv) at the start of your command line:

(venv) C:\myapp>

4. Install Flask Framework

With your virtual environment activated, install Flask using pip:

(venv) C:\myapp> pip install Flask

This will download and install the latest version of Flask and its dependencies.

5. Verify Flask Installation

After installation, confirm that Flask is installed correctly:

(venv) C:\myapp> flask --version

You can also check details using:

(venv) C:\myapp> pip show Flask

Or verify it inside Python:

(venv) C:\myapp> python
>>> import importlib
>>> importlib.metadata.version('flask')

If Flask’s version number appears, your installation is successful!

Congratulations!

You’ve successfully installed Flask on Windows 11. You can now start building your first Flask app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need Python installed before installing Flask?

Yes. Flask is a Python framework, so you must install Python first. The tutorial uses python --version to verify it.

2. Can I install Flask without a virtual environment?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. A virtual environment keeps your project dependencies separate, preventing conflicts with other Python projects.

3. What is `py -3` and why is it used?

py -3 tells Windows to use Python 3 specifically. This ensures Flask is installed with the correct interpreter.

4. How do I deactivate the virtual environment?

Simply run:

(venv) C:\myapp> deactivate

5. What should I do if `flask` command is not recognized?

This usually means:

Your virtual environment is not activated, or
Python Scripts path isn’t added to your environment variables.

Activate the venv again:

C:\myapp> .venv\Scripts\activate

Then try running the command again.

6. How do I upgrade Flask later?

(venv) C:\myapp> pip install --upgrade Flask

7. Can I use PowerShell instead of Command Prompt?

Yes, Flask works in CMD, PowerShell, and Windows Terminal. Just make sure to use the correct activation command for your shell.