Pip uses incorrect cached package version, instead of the user-specified version

Troubleshooting pip cache

While wielding the --no-cache-dir flag seems quick and easy, seizing complete control over pip cache demands understanding few more commands:

• Check pip version: Different versions come with different rules. Ensure yours isn't breaking any:

pip --version # Reveal your secret, pip!
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• Upgrade pip: Keep pip in its prime to flex its cache clearing muscles effectively:

pip install -U pip # Let's get those wrinkles out, pip!
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• Purge cache: Clean the slate - all cached wheel files must go:

pip cache purge # Pip, start fresh!
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• Remove specific cache: Kick out the package causing trouble:

pip cache remove package # Pack your bags, package!
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• Know where the treasures are, i.e., where are these cached files stored:

pip cache dir # Show us the treasure map, pip!
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• "pip install" magic chant: Get your spell — I mean, version notation — right:

pip install psycopg2==2.4.1 --no-cache-dir # Summon the correct ghost, pip!
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You'll find that these commands along with the pip show to confirm post-installation version prove how pip cache could be a friend, not a foe.

Navigating the pip cache journey

Just like orders in an ice cream shop, pip should respect and serve the requested flavor (version). If you ask for mint-chocolate chip, that's what you ought to get, not the outdated scoop from yesterday!

Your Order: 🍨💬 "I would like the mint-chocolate chip, please!"

Just like the shopkeeper, pip scoops from the storage freezer (cache):

Storage Freezer (Cache): 🍫 Chocolate, 🍓 Strawberry, 🍃 Mint-Chocolate Chip (Old Version)

The shopkeeper hands you the cached version:

You Received: 🍨🍃 (Old Version)

Ideally:

You SHOULD Receive: 🍨🍃 (The exact version you asked for!)

The lesson for pip: Always serve the SPECIFIC order, not just what's available in the freezer (cache)!

Deep dive into pip caching

Knowing the nuts and bolts of pip caching can be the difference between smooth sailing and a rocky road:

• Avoid complete cache disabling: Cache is a tool for efficiency. It's like a robot butler - don't sack it, just manage it.

• Check global pip behavior: A rogue global.no-cache-dir configuration may be preventing caching:

[global]
no-cache-dir = false # Don't be a party pooper, pip!
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• pip cache command: Starting with pip 20.1, wielding this command is like having your own Pip wand.

• --no-cache-dir: Use it to ensure you are getting the hot off the press files.

• Cache directory paths: Manual deletion could be the last resort if you're stuck with pip versions older than 20.1:

  • Linux/Unix: ~/.cache/pip
  • OS X: ~/Library/Caches/pip
  • Windows: %LocalAppData%\pip\Cache

Staying ahead with pip

Just like a strict fitness regime, a disciplined approach to pip and package management brings excellent results:

• Keep pip updated: You know what they say about old dogs? Don't let pip become one!

pip install -U pip # Pip, it's time for your jog
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• Post-installation check: Keep no doubts, always check whether you got the correct version post-installation:

pip show package # Pip, show us what you got!
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• Virtual environments: Consider them as isolated islands where your packages live without affecting each other.