VMware vSphere PowerCLI

VMware, Inc. ❘ Commercial ❘
Windows

Streamline Your Virtual Management with VMware vSphere PowerCLI

David Fischer

01/11/2025

VMware vSphere PowerCLI offers a powerful set of cmdlets for automating and managing VMware environments, making it essential for IT professionals seeking efficiency.

VMware vSphere PowerCLI is a powerful software tool developed by VMware, Inc. Designed specifically for managing and automating tasks within VMware vSphere environments, this software provides users with a command-line interface that allows for seamless control and administration of virtual infrastructure.

With VMware vSphere PowerCLI, users can easily execute a wide range of actions, such as provisioning virtual machines, configuring network settings, managing storage resources, and automating repetitive tasks. The software utilizes a scripting language powered by PowerShell, enabling users to create and execute scripts to streamline administrative workflows.

Featuring an extensive library of pre-built commands, VMware vSphere PowerCLI offers users a comprehensive set of tools to effectively manage their virtualized environments. Additionally, the software allows for remote management capabilities, empowering administrators to control their VMware deployments from any location.

By leveraging the power of VMware vSphere PowerCLI, organizations can achieve improved efficiency, reduced administrative overhead, and enhanced control over their virtual infrastructure. Whether it's automating routine tasks or managing complex environments, this software provides a robust solution for VMware vSphere administration.

Overview

VMware vSphere PowerCLI is a Commercial software in the category Desktop developed by VMware, Inc..

The latest version of VMware vSphere PowerCLI is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 06/25/2009.

VMware vSphere PowerCLI runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

VMware vSphere PowerCLI has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Powerful automation capabilities for managing VMware environments
Supports a wide range of vSphere features and functions
Highly extensible with the ability to create custom scripts
Integrates well with other VMware products and third-party tools
Regular updates and good community support for troubleshooting and enhancements
Cross-platform support, can be run on Windows and Linux environments
Ease of use for both beginners and advanced users with comprehensive documentation

Cons

Requires familiarity with PowerShell scripting, which can have a learning curve for new users
May not cover every vSphere feature leading to possible manual intervention
Performance may be hindered with very large environments or complex scripts
Initial setup can be complex depending on the existing infrastructure
Users may face version compatibility issues when upgrading VMware products

FAQ

What is VMware vSphere PowerCLI?

VMware vSphere PowerCLI is a command-line scripting tool built on Windows PowerShell that provides automation and management capabilities for VMware vSphere environments.

What are the benefits of using PowerCLI?

PowerCLI allows administrators to automate complex tasks, streamline management workflows, and perform bulk operations in VMware vSphere environments more efficiently.

Can I use PowerCLI to manage both vSphere hosts and virtual machines?

Yes, PowerCLI provides cmdlets (commands) that allow you to manage both vSphere hosts and virtual machines, providing a comprehensive toolset for controlling your entire vSphere infrastructure.

Does PowerCLI support automation and scripting?

Yes, PowerCLI is designed for automation and scripting. It includes a robust set of cmdlets that allow you to create scripts and automate repetitive tasks in your VMware vSphere environment.

Can I use PowerCLI to manage multiple vSphere environments simultaneously?

Yes, PowerCLI supports managing multiple vSphere environments from a single session. You can connect to multiple vCenter Servers or ESXi hosts and perform management tasks across all connected environments.

What are some common use cases for PowerCLI?

PowerCLI can be used for various tasks such as creating virtual machines, modifying virtual machine configurations, configuring host settings, managing snapshots, and generating reports in VMware vSphere environments.

Is PowerCLI only available for Windows?

No, while the primary PowerCLI distribution is built on Windows PowerShell, there is also a cross-platform version called PowerCLI Core that can run on macOS and Linux systems as well.

How can I install PowerCLI?

PowerCLI is available as a Windows PowerShell module. You can install it by running the PowerShell command 'Install-Module -Name VMware.PowerCLI'. For PowerCLI Core, the installation process may vary based on the platform.

Does VMware offer any official documentation or resources for PowerCLI?

Yes, VMware provides comprehensive documentation, including user guides and reference material, for PowerCLI. You can find the official documentation on the VMware website or in the PowerCLI installation package.

Is PowerCLI free to use?

Yes, PowerCLI is available as a free tool provided by VMware. You can use it to manage your vSphere infrastructure without any additional license cost.

David Fischer

I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.

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