AWS CLI vs PowerShell: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss the key differences between AWS CLI and PowerShell.

1. Scripting Language: AWS CLI is a command-line tool that uses the syntax from the Bash shell, making it compatible with Linux and Unix-based systems. On the other hand, PowerShell is a scripting language developed by Microsoft and primarily used for automation and task automation on Windows systems.

2. Platform Support: AWS CLI is designed to work with a variety of platforms, including Linux, macOS, and Windows. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to seamlessly interact with AWS services from different operating systems. In contrast, PowerShell is primarily focused on Windows environments and is tightly integrated with the Windows ecosystem.

3. Command Syntax: AWS CLI follows a more traditional command-line syntax, where each command consists of a verb-noun combination (e.g., aws s3 cp). PowerShell, on the other hand, employs a more object-oriented approach, with commands resembling natural language constructs (e.g., Copy-S3Object).

4. Integration with Other Tools: AWS CLI integrates well with other command-line tools and scripts, making it easier to automate complex tasks. It provides a wide range of commands and options for interacting with AWS services. PowerShell, on the other hand, goes beyond AWS and offers extensive integration with various Microsoft tools and technologies, allowing users to manage not only AWS but also Windows-based systems.

5. Rich Scripting Capabilities: PowerShell is a powerful scripting language that provides extensive capabilities for automation, task scheduling, and management of Windows systems. It offers advanced features such as pipeline support, object manipulation, and access to the .NET framework. While AWS CLI also supports scripting and automation, PowerShell provides a more comprehensive set of tools for managing Windows environments.

6. Ease of Use: AWS CLI is relatively straightforward and easy to use, especially for users familiar with command-line interfaces. It has a concise and consistent syntax, making it quick to learn. PowerShell, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve due to its object-oriented nature and the extensive range of features it offers. However, once mastered, PowerShell provides a highly efficient and flexible environment for managing Windows systems.

In summary, AWS CLI and PowerShell differ in terms of scripting language, platform support, command syntax, integration with other tools, scripting capabilities, and ease of use. While AWS CLI is cross-platform and follows a traditional command-line syntax, PowerShell is Windows-centric, uses a more object-oriented approach, has extensive integration with Microsoft tools, offers rich scripting capabilities, and may have a higher learning curve.