Python 2.2 on Red Hat

[David Ripton]

Andy Jacobs <oct at redcatmedia.net> wrote in message news:<BDC02405.3068%oct at redcatmedia.net>...

> I'm trying to install some anti spam software called ASK.  This relies on
> Python2.2 whereas my Cobalt RAQ4 is running 1.5.2 so I need to upgrade from
> RPM.
> 
> I've done a search and everything for Python2.2 says that it's for Red Hat
> 7, 8 or 9.  I'm running 6.  I don't want to just go at this like a bull in a
> china shop so wondered what the advice here might be.

RedHat uses Python 1.5.2 for key OS tools like the Anaconda installer.
 Upgrading /usr/bin/python to something newer than 1.5.2 will break
them.

So you need to put a newer Python somewhere else.

My advice is to install modern Python (like 2.3.4), from source (it's
easy: standard ./configure; make; su; make install), under /usr/local.

Then make sure that ASK usess /usr/local/bin/python instead of
/usr/bin/python, by manipulating the PATH or a shebang line or
whatever.  RedHat's tools are hardcoded to /usr/bin/python so putting
a second Python under /usr/local is safe.