Managing Linode Accounts with linode-cli account (with examples)

The linode-cli account command offers a comprehensive suite of tools for managing your Linode account directly from the command line. It simplifies various account-related tasks such as viewing account details, checking settings, making payments, and viewing notifications. These tools can be particularly useful for system administrators, developers, and anyone who prefers command-line operations over a graphical user interface, providing efficiency and speed in handling account-related functions.

Use Case 1: View Account

Code:

linode-cli account view

Motivation:

Checking your account details regularly is crucial for ensuring accuracy and keeping track of your account statistics and status. This command allows you to quickly access all pertinent account information, which can be especially useful for auditing and keeping records up-to-date without logging into a web dashboard.

Explanation:

• linode-cli: This is the command-line interface tool for Linode, allowing CLI-based management.
• account: Specifies that the operation pertains to account management functions.
• view: This argument fetches and displays the detailed information of your Linode account, including associated user information, status, and billing addresses.

Example Output:

{
    "active_promotions": [],
    "address_1": "123 Linode Street",
    "address_2": "Suite 100",
    "balance": -5.00,
    "city": "Linode Town",
    "company": "My Company",
    "country": "US",
    "email": "user@example.com",
    "first_name": "John",
    "last_name": "Doe",
    "phone": "555-0199",
    "state": "CA",
    "zip": "95054"
}

Use Case 2: View Account Settings

Code:

linode-cli account settings

Motivation:

Viewing your account settings allows you to verify and confirm various configurations that dictate how your account functions. This can include email preferences, billing options, and security settings. Regularly checking settings ensures they are accurate and adhere to your desired level of security and account management policies.

Explanation:

• linode-cli: Indicates you’re using the Linode command-line interface.
• account: Refers to account management tasks.
• settings: Fetches and displays current account settings, enabling you to view email preferences, payment methods, and other configurable features.

Example Output:

{
    "email_notifications": true,
    "network_helper": true,
    "managed": false,
    "longview_subscription": "longview-5",
    "tax_id": null,
    "network_group": true,
    "backup_hour": 0,
    "backup_day": 0,
    "backup_window": 2,
    "object_storage": true
}

Use Case 3: Make a Payment

Code:

linode-cli account payment-create --cvv 123 --usd 100

Motivation:

Timely payments are critical in maintaining uninterrupted service for your Linode resources. Using the CLI to process payments ensures you can quickly address outstanding balances and avoid service disruptions. It’s especially useful for administrators managing multiple accounts or facilitating automated billing scenarios.

Explanation:

• linode-cli: Command-line interface for executing Linode operations.
• account: Pertains to financial and account operations.
• payment-create: Initiates a new payment transaction.
• --cvv 123: Specifies the CVV security number for the credit card in use. This three-digit code is critical for verifying card authenticity.
• --usd 100: Designates the payment amount in US dollars that you want to remit toward your account balance.

Example Output:

{
    "message": "Payment of $100 was successful. Your new balance is $-25.00."
}

Use Case 4: View Account Notifications

Code:

linode-cli account notifications-list

Motivation:

Notifications are essential for staying updated on essential information like upcoming maintenance, billing reminders, or security alerts. By viewing notifications through the CLI, you can immediately capture critical alerts and take necessary action without relying on email or dashboard notifications.

Explanation:

• linode-cli: Utilizes the Linode command-line interface tool.
• account: Indicates dealing with account-related information.
• notifications-list: Retrieves all current notifications, providing insights into any pressing events or updates related to your account.

Example Output:

[
    {
        "id": 12345,
        "label": "Upcoming maintenance on Linode123",
        "severity": "critical",
        "when": "November 01, 2023 03:00 PM"
    },
    {
        "id": 67890,
        "label": "Your invoice #98765 is due soon",
        "severity": "major",
        "when": "October 20, 2023 12:00 PM"
    }
]

Conclusion

Using the linode-cli account command provides a powerful and efficient way to manage your Linode account directly from the command line. Whether you are looking to verify account details, check settings, make payments, or stay updated on important notifications, these functionalities save time and offer convenience. The examples provided illustrate practical applications of this command, emphasizing its utility in real-world account management.