Azure Cloud Shell, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell: environment vs tools
Slide deck explaining Azure Cloud Shell, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell: understanding the difference between environment (where you work) and tools (what you use). Covers Cloud Shell as browser terminal, CLI vs PowerShell tools, when to use each, persistence, and decision checklist.
Azure Cloud Shell, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell: environment vs tools
Introduction to Azure Cloud Shell, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell: understanding the difference between environment (where you work) and tools (what you use).
Azure Cloud Shell, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell: environment vs tools
Introduction to Azure Cloud Shell, Azure CLI, and Azure PowerShell: understanding the difference between environment (where you work) and tools (what you use).
Environment vs tools (the big idea)
Cloud Shell is where you work; CLI and PowerShell are what you use to work. 'Where' equals environment (Azure Cloud Shell). 'What' equals command tools (Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI), Azure PowerShell). Goal: choose the right combo for your situation.
Azure Cloud Shell (what it is)
A browser terminal that's already authenticated to Azure. Interactive terminal in the browser. Authenticated to your Azure account. Best for quick tasks, troubleshooting, learning, one-off work.
Cloud Shell experiences: Bash vs PowerShell
Pick the shell that matches how you like to work. Bash (Bourne Again SHell) option. PowerShell option. Same environment (Cloud Shell), different shell experience.
Cloud Shell vs CLI vs PowerShell
Environment (where) and tools (what) are separate decisions. Cloud Shell equals environment (where you run commands). Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI) equals tool (commands like az). Azure PowerShell equals tool (PowerShell cmdlets).
Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI) in one slide
Azure CLI is the az tool, and it can run in Cloud Shell or locally. Cross-platform tool for managing Azure resources. Main command: az. Runs in Cloud Shell or on your computer. Works with multiple shells (not only Bash).
Azure PowerShell (what it is)
Azure PowerShell is PowerShell modules (Az module (Az)) for managing Azure with cmdlets. PowerShell modules for Azure management. Common module: Az module (Az). Uses PowerShell cmdlets (PowerShell-style commands). Runs in Cloud Shell (PowerShell) or locally.
Cloud Shell persistence (what to save, where)
The session host is temporary; your cloud drive is persistent. Session host is temporary (not a permanent Virtual Machine (VM)). Persistent storage is mounted into the session. Save important files in home folder / clouddrive.
When Cloud Shell is the best fit
If you need a terminal fast and can't install tools, use Cloud Shell. Fresh device or restricted device. No time / no permission to install. Use Cloud Shell for quick commands and one-off tasks.
Pick your tool: Azure CLI vs Azure PowerShell
Choose the command style you're productive in, then pick environment (Cloud Shell or local). Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI): az commands, cross-platform. Azure PowerShell: Az module (Az), PowerShell cmdlets. Run in Cloud Shell for quick tasks. Install locally for deeper scripting plus integration.
Quick decision checklist + persistence reminder
Choose environment first, then choose the tool style you prefer. Cloud Shell for 'right now' browser terminal. Local install for repeatable automation plus integration. Tool choice: Azure CLI (az) vs Azure PowerShell (cmdlets). Save scripts in home folder / clouddrive (persistence).