Top 10 Google Cloud CLI Commands Every Developer Should Know

In the ever-evolving landscape of cloud computing, the Google Cloud Command Line Interface (CLI), also known as gcloud, stands out as a powerful tool for developers. It offers a way to manage and interact with Google Cloud resources directly from the terminal, allowing for automation, scripting, and rapid deployment of applications. Below are the top ten essential gcloud commands every developer should know, particularly when working with Google Cloud Storage cli and beyond.

1. gcloud init

The first step in using google-cloud-cli is initializing it. The command gcloud init sets up the CLI with your Google account credentials, allows you to select your default project, and configures your preferred settings.

Usage:

This command will walk you through the process of authorizing your account and selecting the default project, making it a crucial starting point for any developer.

2. gcloud auth login

Authentication is critical when working with cloud resources. The gcloud cli auth login command allows you to authenticate your local environment with your Google Cloud account.

Usage:

This command opens a web browser where you can log in to your Google account and grant permissions, ensuring secure access to your cloud resources.

3. gcloud projects list

Managing multiple projects can be challenging. The gcloud projects list command helps you view all the projects associated with your Google Cloud account.

Usage:

This command displays a list of projects along with their IDs, making it easier to switch contexts when working on different applications.

4. gcloud config set project

Once you have your projects listed, you often need to set a specific project as the active one for subsequent commands. The gcloud config set project command accomplishes this.

Usage:

Replace PROJECT_ID with the ID of the project you want to set as active. This command helps in ensuring that all operations you perform afterward are directed to the specified project.

5. gcloud compute instances list

Managing virtual machines (VMs) is a common task in cloud development. The gcloud compute instances list command lets you view all the VM instances running in your project.

Usage:

This command provides essential information such as the name, zone, and status of each instance, allowing for quick management and oversight.

6. gcloud storage buckets create

Creating and managing storage buckets is a fundamental task for applications that rely on data storage. The gcloud storage buckets create command is used to create a new Cloud Storage bucket.

Usage:

Replace BUCKET_NAME with your desired bucket name. This command is essential for developers working with large datasets or file storage.

7. gcloud storage cp

The gcloud storage cp command allows you to copy files between your local machine and Google Cloud Storage. This is particularly useful for uploading and downloading files.

Usage:

This command helps you manage data effectively, ensuring that your application has access to necessary resources stored in the cloud.

8. gcloud storage ls

To list the contents of a specific bucket, the gcloud storage ls command is invaluable. It provides a quick overview of what files and directories are stored in your Cloud Storage bucket.

Usage:

This command can save developers time when they need to verify the contents of a bucket without accessing the web console.

Read More: Top Features Must Have For Real Estate Mobile App

9. gcloud app deploy

For developers building applications, deploying them to the Google Cloud environment is a crucial step. The gcloud app deploy command simplifies this process.

Usage:

By running this command in your application’s directory, it uploads your app’s source code and configures it for deployment. This command is particularly useful for web applications built using App Engine.

10. gcloud functions deploy

For serverless applications, deploying functions is essential. The gcloud functions deploy command allows you to deploy Google Cloud Functions directly from your terminal.

Usage:

Replace FUNCTION_NAME and RUNTIME with your function’s name and the appropriate runtime environment (e.g., nodejs14). This command is crucial for developers focusing on microservices or event-driven architectures.

Conclusion

The Google Cloud CLI is an indispensable tool for developers working in cloud environments. By mastering these ten commands, developers can streamline their workflows, manage resources effectively, and enhance productivity. As businesses increasingly adopt cloud solutions, the ability to utilize tools like gcloud becomes vital.

For those looking to build their own solutions or automate their processes, choosing the right outsourcing partner can significantly impact the success of your project. Whether you opt for in-house development or hire experts, platforms like Cubes Infotech offer comprehensive services to guide you through cloud solutions and app development. Embracing tools like Google Cloud CLI not only boosts efficiency but also empowers developers to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing technological landscape.