Last modified: Jun 01, 2025 By Alexander Williams
Install Caffe for Python: Step-by-Step Guide
Caffe is a popular deep learning framework. It is widely used for computer vision tasks. This guide will help you install Caffe for Python.
Prerequisites
Before installing Caffe, ensure you have the following:
- Python 3.6 or higher
- pip installed
- Basic knowledge of terminal commands
If you need help setting up Python, check our guide on Install Python Package on Raspberry Pi.
Step 1: Install Dependencies
Caffe requires several dependencies. Run the following commands in your terminal.
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install -y libprotobuf-dev libleveldb-dev libsnappy-dev libopencv-dev libhdf5-serial-dev protobuf-compiler
sudo apt-get install -y --no-install-recommends libboost-all-dev
This installs essential libraries for Caffe. If you face issues, refer to Install and Set Up PyTables in Python.
Step 2: Clone Caffe Repository
Next, clone the Caffe repository from GitHub.
git clone https://github.com/BVLC/caffe.git
cd caffe
This downloads the latest Caffe source code.
Step 3: Install Python Requirements
Caffe has Python-specific dependencies. Install them using pip.
pip install -r python/requirements.txt
This ensures all Python dependencies are met.
Step 4: Configure and Build Caffe
Now, configure Caffe using CMake. Create a build directory first.
mkdir build
cd build
cmake ..
After configuration, build Caffe.
make all
make install
This compiles Caffe from source.
Step 5: Install Caffe Python Package
Finally, install the Caffe Python package.
make pycaffe
Add Caffe to your Python path.
export PYTHONPATH=/path/to/caffe/python:$PYTHONPATH
Replace /path/to/caffe with your Caffe directory.
Step 6: Verify Installation
Check if Caffe is installed correctly.
import caffe
print(caffe.__version__)
This should print the Caffe version.
Common Issues and Fixes
If you encounter errors, try these fixes:
- Ensure all dependencies are installed.
- Check Python path settings.
- Rebuild Caffe if changes are made.
For Docker users, see Install Python Package in Docker.
Conclusion
You have successfully installed Caffe for Python. This powerful tool is now ready for deep learning projects. Happy coding!