14 Awesome CLI Tools for Modern Software Developers

As a software developer, you’re constantly looking for ways to improve your workflow and productivity. One area where many developers can get stuck is with command-line interface (CLI) tools. While some may see them as outdated or unnecessary, the truth is that there are countless amazing tools out there waiting to be discovered.

In this article, we’ll delve into 14 fantastic CLI tools that will take your development game to the next level. From code management and version control to debugging and testing, these tools have got you covered.

Table of Contents

Code Management

Managing your codebase can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to keeping track of dependencies and versions.

  • Docker: A containerization platform that allows you to package your app and its dependencies into a single unit.
  • Kubernetes: An orchestration tool for automating the deployment, scaling, and management of containers.
  • Snyk: A vulnerability management tool that helps you identify and fix security issues in your codebase.

Version Control

Version control systems are essential for managing changes to your codebase.

  • Git: A widely-used version control system that allows you to track changes to your code.
  • Mercurial: Another popular version control system that offers a more intuitive interface.
  • Bitbucket: A web-based platform for hosting and managing your Git repositories.

Debugging

Debugging is an essential part of the development process, but it can be time-consuming and frustrating.

  • PDB: A built-in Python debugger that allows you to step through your code and inspect variables.
  • GDB: A powerful debugger for C and C++ applications.
  • Visual Studio Code Debugger: A debugging tool integrated directly into VS Code.

Testing

Testing is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of your application.

  • Pytest: A popular testing framework for Python applications.
  • Unittest: A built-in Python testing framework that’s easy to use.
  • Behave: A BDD testing framework for Behavior-Driven Development.

Security

Security is a top priority when it comes to protecting your application and its users.

  • OWASP ZAP: A web application security scanner that helps you identify vulnerabilities.
  • Burp Suite: A comprehensive toolset for web application security testing.
  • HashiCorp’s Vault: A secrets management tool that helps you securely store and manage sensitive data.

Collaboration

Collaboration tools are essential for working with team members and stakeholders.

  • Slack: A popular communication platform for teams.
  • Trello: A project management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to organize tasks.
  • Asana: A work management platform that helps you track progress and deadlines.

Productivity

Productivity tools can help you streamline your workflow and get more done in less time.

  • Todo.txt: A simple task management tool that’s easy to use.
  • Any.do: A task management platform that integrates with other productivity apps.
  • RescueTime: A time management tool that helps you understand how you spend your time.

Automation

Automation tools can help you streamline repetitive tasks and reduce manual work.

  • Ansible: An automation tool for configuring and managing infrastructure.
  • Puppet: A configuration management tool that automates system administration tasks.
  • Fabric: A Python library for running shell commands remotely.

DevOps

DevOps is a set of practices that help you improve the collaboration between development and operations teams.

  • Jenkins: A CI/CD tool that automates testing, building, and deployment.
  • Docker Swarm: A container orchestration tool for Docker.
  • Kubernetes: An orchestration tool for automating the deployment, scaling, and management of containers.

Data Analysis

Data analysis tools can help you make sense of your data and gain insights.

  • Pandas: A Python library for data manipulation and analysis.
  • NumPy: A library for efficient numerical computation.
  • SciPy: A library for scientific computing.

Network Management

Network management tools can help you manage your network infrastructure and troubleshoot issues.

  • Netcat: A networking tool for creating custom network protocols.
  • Nmap: A network scanning tool that helps you identify open ports and services.
  • Wireshark: A packet analyzer that helps you inspect network traffic.

System Administration

System administration tools can help you manage your system infrastructure and troubleshoot issues.

  • sysctl: A tool for managing kernel parameters and configuration options.
  • semanage: A tool for managing user accounts and group membership.
  • systemd: A system and service manager that automates system startup and shutdown.

IT Support

IT support tools can help you manage your helpdesk and provide technical assistance to users.

  • Freshdesk: A customer support platform that helps you manage tickets and requests.
  • Zoho Desk: A ticketing system for managing helpdesk tickets and requests.
  • Spiceworks: A IT service management tool that helps you manage tickets, inventory, and more.

Miscellaneous

There are many other CLI tools out there that can help you with various tasks and projects.

  • Figma: A design tool for creating and collaborating on UI/UX designs.
  • Sketch: A digital design tool for creating and prototyping UI/UX designs.
  • Adobe XD: A design and prototyping tool for creating and testing UI/UX designs.

As you can see, there are countless CLI tools out there waiting to be discovered. By investing time in learning these tools, you’ll be able to streamline your workflow, improve productivity, and focus on what matters most - building amazing software.

So, which of these tools are you going to start with?

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cli-tools software-development command-line productivity-enhancements modernizing-workflows