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How to Resolve Python "ModuleNotFoundError: No module named 'distutils.util'"

Encountering ModuleNotFoundError: No module named 'distutils.util' (or similar errors for distutils.cmd or distutils.core) in Python can be confusing, as distutils is historically part of Python's standard library. However, on Debian-based Linux distributions like Ubuntu, distutils is often packaged separately from the main Python interpreter.

This guide explains why this error typically occurs on these systems and provides the standard solutions using the apt package manager.

Understanding the Error: distutils and System Packaging​

distutils is a foundational package in Python used for building and installing Python modules. While included in the standard library by default in many Python installations (like those from python.org or Conda), Debian and Ubuntu often split parts of the standard library into separate system packages managed by apt.

The ModuleNotFoundError for distutils.util, distutils.cmd, or distutils.core arises on these systems when Python tries to import these submodules, but the necessary python3-distutils system package (or its version-specific equivalent) hasn't been installed alongside the main python3 interpreter package.

Common Cause: Missing python3-distutils Package (Debian/Ubuntu)​

The most frequent reason for this error on Debian-based systems is simply that the separate package containing the distutils module was not installed or was removed.

The standard fix is to use the apt package manager to install the missing package.

Check Your Python Version​

First, determine the specific Python 3 version you are using, as you might need a version-specific package.

python3 --version

Output:

Python 3.10.6

Install the Correct Package​

Open your terminal and run the following commands:

# 1. Update your package list
sudo apt update

# 2. Install the distutils package for your Python 3 version
# - For the system's default Python 3:
sudo apt install python3-distutils

# - For a specific version (e.g., 3.10 found above):
#   Use this if you installed a specific python3.X package via apt
#   or if the generic one doesn't work.
# sudo apt install python3.10-distutils
# sudo apt install python3.11-distutils # etc.

# 3. Optionally, ensure python3-apt is also installed (sometimes related)
sudo apt install python3-apt
  • Always run sudo apt update first to ensure you have the latest package lists.
  • Start by trying the generic python3-distutils. If that doesn't resolve it or you know you're using a specific python3.X installed via apt (like from the Deadsnakes PPA, see below), install the version-specific package (e.g., python3.10-distutils).
  • After installation, try running your Python script or command again.

Solution 2: Reinstall python3-distutils via apt​

If you believe the package is installed but might be corrupted, you can try reinstalling it.

# Reinstall the generic package
sudo apt install --reinstall python3-distutils

# Or reinstall the version-specific package if needed
# sudo apt install --reinstall python3.10-distutils

Solution 3: Using Deadsnakes PPA for Specific Python Versions (Alternative)​

If you installed a specific Python version (e.g., 3.11) on an older Ubuntu version using the popular Deadsnakes PPA, you'll likely need to install the corresponding distutils package from that same PPA.

# 1. Add the Deadsnakes PPA (if you haven't already)
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa
sudo apt update

# 2. Install the distutils package matching your Python version from the PPA
#    Replace X with your specific minor version (e.g., 11)
sudo apt install python3.X-distutils

# 3. Optionally install the corresponding apt package
sudo apt install python3.X-apt

Example for Python 3.11:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3.11-distutils
sudo apt install python3.11-apt

Use this method if the standard Ubuntu repositories don't provide the distutils package matching a specific Python version you installed from a PPA.

Important Context: Installation Method Matters​

This ModuleNotFoundError for distutils is highly specific to Debian/Ubuntu systems managing Python via apt. If you installed Python using other methods, distutils is typically included:

  • Official Python.org Installer (Windows/macOS): Includes distutils.
  • Homebrew (macOS): Includes distutils.
  • Conda/Anaconda: Installs Python with distutils included in its own environment.
  • pyenv: Installs self-contained Python versions which include distutils.

If you encounter this error on a non-Debian/Ubuntu system or with Python installed via these other methods, it might indicate a more severe problem with your Python installation itself, potentially requiring a repair or full reinstall of Python.

Conclusion​

The ModuleNotFoundError: No module named 'distutils.util' (or .cmd, .core) on Debian/Ubuntu systems almost always means the required python3-distutils system package is missing.

The primary solution is to install it using the apt package manager:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3-distutils

Remember to use the version-specific package name (e.g., python3.10-distutils) if needed, especially when using PPAs like Deadsnakes. If issues persist, try reinstalling the package.

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