CLI options#
A powerful way to interact with the UNLOCK FAIR Data Platform is through Command Line Interfaces. There are several available options.
CLI methods leverage iRODS directly to access the UNLOCK FDP. The most accessible option is iBridges, which offers both command-line usage and a graphical interface. It is also available as a Python package, making it ideal for integrating into analysis workflows. This Python package is used in various analysis tutorials within the Tutorials section. If you are interested in the command-line interface of iBridges (not discussed in this guide), see:
https://ibridges.readthedocs.io/en/stable/ibridges_cli.html
iCommands is the most powerful and flexible command-line option, supporting advanced operations not supported by other methods. However, it is also the most difficult to install and run when not on a Linux operating system.
GoCommands offers a simple, portable alternative to iCommands for all platforms. It does not include all its features but does support other convenient features for ease of use.
The table below depicts a comparison between the tools. For more details and installion instructions, visit their corresponding pages.
Method |
Graphical user interface (GUI) |
OS Compatibility |
Advantages |
Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Yes |
Windows, macOS, Linux |
Easy to understand and use, Python-compatible |
Use Python module for analysis workflows |
|
No |
Limited to Linux |
Scriptable, more advanced control |
Advanced users only |
|
No |
Windows, macOS, Linux |
No install required, simpler than iCommands |
Use for most general purposes (data transfer) |