Frequently Asked Questions

What problem does Anaconda solve?

Python is a popular programming language that is widely used for numerical computing and data analysis across many industries, hardwares, and production pipelines. Anaconda is a one-stop-shop for Python and R packages, solving many problems associated with using and managing open-source software.

Most projects in the Python open-source software (OSS) ecosystem depend on other projects to function, and this forms a chain of prerequisites and requirements otherwise known as “dependencies.” Open-source projects are managed independently by maintainers around the world who release updates asynchronously. Thus, a tool that manages packages, recognizes your hardware architecture, and keeps projects separate is necessary in order to ensure proper functionality.

Conda is Anaconda’s package, environment, and dependency manager. It is cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux [x86/AARCH64/PPC64LE/s390x]), cross-language (supports Python, R, C/C++, Rust, Go, and more), and ensures package compatibility and environment correctness. Without a package and environment manager like Conda, the chain of dependencies can become unmanageable; packages may depend on incompatible versions of other packages, and obtaining different versions of those other packages may break other dependencies and push the problem downstream. In other words, chaos ensues.

Anaconda was built to cut through—and prevent—the chaos associated with package and environment management. Our paid plans offer additional capabilities and allow open-source software to be safely and securely utilized, even in the most stringent and regulated industries.

What is Anaconda Distribution?

Anaconda Distribution is a free Python/R data science distribution. An Anaconda Distribution install includes Conda and Anaconda Navigator, a desktop GUI that is preloaded with the most widely used data science and machine learning packages.

Who should use Anaconda?

Anaconda’s ease of use makes it an attractive option for data practitioners of all abilities—particularly those who wish to build and test models together, and those who value business impact and data-driven decision making. IT and InfoSec teams also benefit from using Anaconda, leveraging its security and governance features to manage their infrastructure with confidence and reduce their organization’s exposure to vulnerabilities. And of course students, researchers, and academics can use Anaconda to streamline workflows and deliver value—no matter their field.

How is Anaconda being used?

Organizations across many industries including finance, manufacturing, healthcare, and more are using Anaconda to harness open-source innovation and build custom models and applications. From neural networks to data visualization to robotics, the use cases are limitless.

Does Anaconda make it easier for enterprises to perform open-source data science, AI, and machine learning?

Yes! Our plans for organizations make it easy for enterprise users to access the open-source software they need while adhering to advanced security standards.

What is Anaconda Embedded?

Anaconda Embedded allows organizations to partner with us to leverage the world’s most popular open-source package distribution in their technology-enabled products. Organizations can build and distribute with Anaconda to deliver a seamless customer experience.

What is the relationship between Anaconda and Python?

Python is a widely used, multi-purpose programming language. Anaconda pioneered the use of Python for data science, champions its vibrant community, and continues to steward open-source projects that make tomorrow’s innovation possible.

How much does Anaconda cost?

Anaconda pricing is detailed on our Pricing page.

What kind of security is provided with Anaconda?

Anaconda’s paid plans offer a variety of features and tools that support open-source security and compliance, from Conda Signature Verification to CVE curation to SBOMs and more.

What kind of interoperability does Anaconda offer?

Conda, Anaconda’s package, environment, and dependency manager, was built to support cross-platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux [x86/AARCH64/PPC64LE/s390x]) and cross-languages (supports Python, R, C/C++, Rust, Go, and more). Conda is particularly helpful when it comes to reproducibility and deployment of applications into multiple environments. Models and applications written on one computer can easily be ported to another, regardless of platform. This type of interoperability continues to steward our core values of widespread adoption, sharing, and collaboration.

Where can I find Anaconda support resources?

Head to our Support Center to access helpful documentation.

What is Anaconda Cloud?

Anaconda Cloud is our cloud platform that features a wealth of data science content ranging from articles to webinars to on-demand courses, a notebook service with a fully loaded and ready-to-code interactive development environment, and more. It’s a space where millions of Anaconda users, data practitioners, and makers of all experience levels are sharing ideas, troubleshooting issues, and connecting with others. The platform is constantly growing and evolving with the goal of becoming increasingly interactive over time. To create your free Anaconda Cloud account, visit anaconda.cloud.

What is Anaconda’s mission?

Anaconda’s mission is multifaceted:

Create a platform where data science users, open-source contributors, AI researchers, and technology providers can discover, share, and sell their innovations.
Drive widespread adoption of modern data analysis by creating an excellent user experience and helping customers integrate tools and techniques throughout their organizations.
Steward open-source innovation by fostering communities and championing open standards for data and computation.
Create a place where people do meaningful work that embodies our core values.

Is Anaconda hiring?

Yes! Head to our Careers page for more information and to view our open positions.