How to use the command 'argocd' (with examples)

How to use the command 'argocd' (with examples)

Argo CD is a declarative, GitOps continuous delivery tool for Kubernetes. The argocd command-line interface (CLI) provides users with a comprehensive set of commands to interact efficiently with the Argo CD server, enabling a streamlined experience for deploying and managing Kubernetes applications. This tool is crucial for teams looking to implement GitOps workflows, offering capabilities for application lifecycle management, environment configuration, and continuous delivery, all through direct interactions with the command line.

Use case 1: Login to Argo CD server

Code:

argocd login --insecure --username user --password password argocd_server:port

Motivation:

Logging into the Argo CD server via the command line is an essential first step for any administrator or developer who wishes to manage applications using Argo CD. This command establishes a session with the server, allowing the user to execute further operations such as listing or managing applications. While interacting with Argo CD through a graphical user interface (GUI) is possible, logging in via CLI is crucial for automating workflows and scripting management tasks, offering a more flexible and robust operation.

Explanation:

  • argocd login: This is the primary command used to initiate a login session with the Argo CD server.
  • --insecure: This flag allows the user to bypass TLS certificate validation. It’s especially useful in a development environment where security is less stringent, or when dealing with a self-signed certificate.
  • --username user: Specifies the username required to authenticate with the Argo CD server.
  • --password password: Provides the password corresponding to the given username. This auto-authentication mechanism allows for seamless and quick access to the server.
  • argocd_server:port: Refers to the network location (IP address or domain name) and port number of the Argo CD server. This designates the specific server instance to which the user wants to connect.

Example Output:

'admin' logged in successfully
Context 'argocd_server:port' updated

Use case 2: List applications

Code:

argocd app list

Motivation:

Listing applications currently managed by Argo CD is a critical operation for teams monitoring the status and health of their deployed applications. This command provides a quick overview of application metadata such as their names, current sync status, and the health of the applications as per the most recent deployment. It facilitates operational visibility and management, ensuring that the operators can assess the state of their application’s environment swiftly and make informed decisions based on this information.

Explanation:

  • argocd app list: This command instructs the CLI to retrieve and display a list of applications currently managed by the Argo CD server associated with the logged-in session. It doesn’t require any additional arguments, which makes it easy and straightforward to use.

Example Output:

NAME        CLUSTER       NAMESPACE  PROJECT  STATUS  HEALTH   SYNCPOLICY  CONDITIONS  REPO
guestbook   https://k8s   default    default  Synced  Healthy  <none>      <none>      https://github.com/argoproj/argocd-example-apps

Conclusion:

The argocd CLI is a powerful tool designed for the efficient management of Kubernetes deployments via Argo CD. Through simple commands like argocd login and argocd app list, users can quickly authenticate themselves and assess the state of their applications. These capabilities are especially valuable in environments where GitOps principles are applied, enhancing automation and consistency in deploying and monitoring Kubernetes applications. The examples provided illustrate real-world use cases that users can apply to streamline their daily operational tasks when working with Argo CD.

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