Command Line Interface
(CLI)
Description
CLI Basics: An Easy Overview
Probably, at some time, you have come across a black window having white writing on it, wherein instead of clicking icons, people type commands. This is known as Command Line Interface or CLI for short. It may not be quite as flashy as the new ones today with colorful windows and buttons; nevertheless, CLI is a powerhouse and still in use by many to date.
So let’s get down to what exactly a Command Line Interface is, how on earth does it operate and why is it beneficial-all in plain English.
What is a CLI?
A Command Line Interface (CLI) is, of inputting text commands towards the interacting with a computer. Moving your fingers on a mouse to pop up menus and clicking, the screen presents buttons in a Graphical User Interface (GUI) rather you type directions, through the keyboard directly into a window; mostly referred to as the “terminal” or “command prompt.”
How Does CLI Work?
The CLI works by the computer waiting for you to type a command, then running that command, and displaying the result. It’s talking to your computer, but using words only.
Every CLI will, as a rule, display some kind of prompt (like $ or C:>), which indicates that it’s waiting for your command.
You yell out a command, i.e., dir (to list files) or cd (to change folders).
- Press Enter: Upon uttering your command, you tap the Enter key.
- Observe the Result: Your computer carries out your command and you see the result on the monitor.
- Do It Again: You can keep on commanding the computer to do more things.
For example, if you type dir on Windows you will get a list of files in the current folder. If you type cd Documents, it will switch to the folder named “Documents”.
Why CLI is Useful
Linux CLI commands can be: longer and contain more options and settings, than those executed by mouse clicks; background jobs , where organizes several commands executed one after another by the user or according to a predefined schedule; and, remote controlling of devices, because terminal protocols can be easily implemented.
- Reduced Resource Consumption: Generally, CLIs require fewer resources than full blown GUIs do.
- Less Power Consumption: A CLI requires less energy to run than a GUI because fewer system services are running.
- Lower Resource Consumption: The amount of system resources consumed by a Command Line Interface is significantly fewer compared to Graphical User Interface, which is quite helpful for older or slower machines.
Comparison of Some Basic Linux Command Line Operations
You may recognize or use some of the following plain commands:
- dir or ls: List out files and folders in the current directory.
- cd: Change to some other folder.
- mkdir: Make a new directory.
- copy or cp: Copy the file.
- del or rm: Delete the file.
- echo: Display a message on the screen.
- exit: Close the CLI window.
These are just a few. Every operating system has its list, but many are alike.
Who Uses the CLI?
While the CLI can be used by anybody, the following are known to derive the most benefit from it:
- Programmers/Developers: For writing code, executing programs, and file management.
- System Administrators: For server and network management by the CLI.
- Power Users: There are users who like the CLI due to its speed and power.
Even if you’re completely new, simply knowing a few CLI commands will make you more comfortable and help you sort out issues more quickly.
Is the CLI Difficult to Master?
At first, the CLI can be a bit intimidating since there is no fancy GUI with pictures and buttons, but actually just a little practice to get accustomed to it. You only have to keep a few basic commands in mind to begin.
"There are many guides and tutorials online that can help you out. Once you start using it, you will find how handy and powerful the CLI is."
Summary
The CLI or Command Line Interface is operating your computer through typing commands instead of clicking and it is not only powerful but fast doing a broad range of work. People can use the CLI to manage files and run programs, and accomplish more productive work endlessly. If you care about computers, learning how to use the CLI even just a little bit is a great investment for now and into the future. Seriously, give it a shot!