Introduction
AWS Lambda supports multiple Python runtime versions, and AWS periodically deprecates older versions while introducing newer, more secure, and better-performing ones. Updating your Lambda function’s Python version helps you update Python runtime version in AWS Lambda to ensure better performance, security patches, and long-term compatibility.
In this blog, we’ll walk through how to update a Lambda function’s Python runtime version using the AWS Management Console (frontend) — no CLI or code changes required.
Prerequisites
Before proceeding, ensure:
- You have access to the AWS Management Console
- You have permissions to modify Lambda functions
- Your application dependencies are compatible with the target Python version
Step-by-Step Guide: Update Python Version via AWS Console
Step 1: Log in to AWS Console
- Go to the AWS Management Console
- Sign in with your AWS credentials
Step 2: Navigate to Lambda Service
- In the AWS Console, search for Lambda
- Click on Lambda → Functions
Step 3: Select Your Lambda Function
- From the list of functions, click on the Lambda function you want to update
Step 4: Edit Runtime Settings
- Scroll to the Runtime settings section
- Click on Edit
Step 5: Change the Python Runtime Version
- Under Runtime, select the required Python version
- Example: Python 3.9 → Python 3.11
- Click Save
The runtime version is updated immediately.
Post-Update Checks (Important)
1. Verify Function Execution
- Go to the Test tab in the Lambda console
- Run a test event to ensure the function executes successfully
2. Check CloudWatch Logs
- Navigate to Monitor → View logs in CloudWatch
- Look for any runtime or dependency-related errors
3. Validate Dependencies and Layers
- Ensure all Python libraries support the updated runtime
- If Lambda Layers are used, confirm they are built for the same Python version
Conclusion
Updating the Python runtime version of an AWS Lambda function via the AWS Console is a quick and straightforward process. However, it’s important to validate dependencies and thoroughly test the function after the upgrade to avoid runtime issues.
Keeping your Lambda functions on supported Python versions ensures better performance, security, and long-term stability.
Tip: Always test the update in a staging environment before applying changes to production.
If you need to update Python runtime version in AWS Lambda and want the process reviewed before applying it in production, having experienced oversight can be useful. Teams providing AWS Management Services, such as Skynats, typically assist with runtime compatibility checks, safe updates through the AWS Console, and post-update validation—a practical option when accuracy and stability matter.
