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What is a CLI?
A CLI is a way to control a program by typing short text commands instead of clicking buttons.
- Category GitHub & code
- Also called command-line interface, command line
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
CLI, explained simply
CLI stands for command-line interface. You type a command, press Enter, and the computer does it.
It looks old-fashioned, but it is fast and easy to repeat. Many AI tools are installed and run this way.
For example, you might type one line to install a tool, then another to start it.
You can copy and paste commands from a guide. You don't have to memorize them.
On ITG Now, our free tool guides give the exact commands to copy and paste, and explain what each one does.
Related terms
Terminalgit clonenpmpipHomebrewAI coding agent
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Questions people ask about CLI
Is a CLI hard to use?
It feels strange at first, but copy-paste guides make it easy. You only type what the guide shows.
CLI vs GUI: what is the difference?
A CLI uses typed commands. A GUI uses windows, menus, and buttons.
Is a CLI safe?
It is as safe as the commands you run. Only run commands from sources you trust.