Choosing Between PowerShell and Azure CLI

When deciding whether to use PowerShell or Azure CLI for managing Azure resources, it’s important to consider the following:

● Platform Compatibility: If you are working in a cross-platform environment (e.g., Windows, Linux, and macOS), Azure CLI might be a better choice since it’s designed to be consistent across all platforms. PowerShell is also cross-platform but is traditionally associated with Windows.
● User Experience: PowerShell is typically favored by those who come from a Windows or .NET background, as it integrates closely with these systems and supports advanced scripting features. Azure CLI is often preferred by those who work within a Linux or macOS environment, as it can be easily integrated into shell scripts.
● Task Complexity: For complex automation tasks, especially those involving conditional logic and advanced error handling, PowerShell scripting might be more suitable. Azure CLI, on the other hand, is excellent for straightforward, imperative commands.
● Integration with Other Services: PowerShell integrates with other Microsoft services and can be a better option if you are managing a broader Microsoft environment. Azure CLI is highly focused on Azure and is optimized for managing Azure resources.

PowerShell and CLI Reference for AZ-900 Exam

For the AZ-900 exam, candidates should be familiar with the basic commands and scripts to perform common tasks such as creating and managing Azure resources, managing Azure subscriptions, and configuring virtual networks. Although it is unlikely that the exam will require writing actual scripts, understanding the syntax and capabilities of both PowerShell and Azure CLI is beneficial.

In addition to knowing specific commands, it’s also important to understand how these tools can be used to implement features and services that are part of the AZ-900 exam scope, like Azure policies, role-based access control, Azure Monitor, and others.

Conclusion

PowerShell and Azure CLI are robust tools that can greatly enhance your productivity when managing Azure resources. Whether you’re preparing for the AZ-900 exam or seeking to streamline your Azure management tasks, proficiency in both tools will serve as a valuable asset in your IT toolkit. They offer different experiences tailored to different user preferences, but both are powerful allies in deploying, managing, and automating cloud resources effectively. As you prepare for the exam, make sure to spend some time familiarizing yourself with the basic commands and understand how these tools align with Azure services and management tasks. This knowledge will not only help you ace the certification but will also empower you to make the most of Azure’s capabilities in your professional career.