How to use the command `gcloud init` (with examples)
The gcloud init command is used to launch an interactive workflow that allows users to set up gcloud or reinitialize configurations. It is part of the Google Cloud SDK, which provides command-line access to Google Cloud Platform services.
Use case 1: Launch a “Getting Started” workflow
Code:
gcloud init
Motivation:
This use case is useful for users who are new to gcloud and want to quickly set up their configurations to get started with Google Cloud Platform services. Running gcloud init will launch an interactive workflow that guides users through the setup process.
Explanation:
Running gcloud init without any additional arguments starts the “Getting Started” workflow. This workflow helps users configure their initial settings, such as choosing a project and region, and authentication options. It also sets up default properties, such as the default compute zone and project ID.
Example output:
Welcome! This command will take you through the configuration of gcloud.
Your current configuration has been set to: [default]
You can skip diagnostics next time by using the following flag:
gcloud init --skip-diagnostics
Do you want to configure a default Compute Region and Zone? (Y/n)?
Use case 2: Launch a workflow without diagnostics
Code:
gcloud init --skip-diagnostics
Motivation:
The --skip-diagnostics flag is useful when users want to skip the diagnostic check, which verifies that gcloud can access the necessary resources and performs a self-check on the installation. This can help save time when the user is already confident in their setup and wants to quickly proceed with configuring or reinitializing their gcloud settings.
Explanation:
The --skip-diagnostics flag is used to bypass the diagnostic check during the gcloud init workflow. By including this flag, the diagnostic checks will be skipped, allowing the user to proceed directly to the configuration step.
Example output:
Welcome! This command will take you through the configuration of gcloud.
Skipping diagnostics due to --skip-diagnostics being set.
Your current configuration has been set to: [default]
Do you want to configure a default Compute Region and Zone? (Y/n)?
Use case 3: Use the console for authentication
Code:
gcloud init --console-only
Motivation:
The --console-only flag is useful when users want to use the console for authentication instead of launching a web browser or using other authentication methods. This can be beneficial in scenarios where the user may not have access to a web browser or prefers using the console for authentication.
Explanation:
By using the --console-only flag, the gcloud init workflow will utilize the console for authentication instead of attempting to open a web browser or use other authentication methods. This allows users to authenticate using the console directly, making it an alternative option for authentication.
Example output:
Welcome! This command will take you through the configuration of gcloud.
Your current configuration has been set to: [default]
Do you want to authenticate with a web browser? (Y/n)?
Conclusion:
The gcloud init command provides users with an interactive workflow for setting up gcloud configurations or reinitializing existing configurations. It offers the flexibility to skip diagnostic checks, use the console for authentication, and provides a guided “Getting Started” workflow. By utilizing these use cases, users can easily configure their gcloud settings according to their preferences and requirements.
