Exploring the 'pyats version' Command (with Examples)

The pyats version command is a powerful tool for managing your pyATS installation. Developed by Cisco, pyATS is a framework designed for automated testing and network validation. By using the pyats version command, users can easily check the current version of their pyATS installation, identify outdated packages, and update or even downgrade to specific versions. This flexibility ensures that your testing environment is always up-to-date and tailored to your needs, optimizing efficiency and reliability during network testing processes.

Display version of all packages

Code:

pyats version check

Motivation:
Before making changes to your pyATS environment or deploying tests, it’s crucial to verify the current versions of all installed packages. This helps ensure compatibility and allows you to keep track of your testing setup’s configurations. The pyats version check command provides a comprehensive list of installed package versions, enabling informed decision-making for updates or maintenance.

Explanation:

• pyats: The primary command for accessing pyATS functionalities.
• version: Sub-command specifying you’re working with version management.
• check: Tells pyATS to display the current version of all installed packages.

Example output:
Upon execution, you’ll see a list of packages and their respective versions, resembling:

Package 1: Version 1.2.3
Package 2: Version 4.5.6
Package 3: Version 7.8.9
...

Display outdated packages

Code:

pyats version check --outdated

Motivation:
Outdated packages can lead to compatibility issues, bugs, and vulnerabilities. Identifying which components of your pyATS setup are outdated is the first step in ensuring your testing environment remains secure and efficient. The --outdated flag helps you quickly pinpoint which packages need an update, saving time and streamlining maintenance.

Explanation:

• pyats: Calls the pyATS framework.
• version: Indicates interaction with version-related functionalities.
• check: Instructs pyATS to assess the current state of package versions.
• --outdated: Filters results to display only those packages that have newer versions available.

Example output:
After running this command, you’ll be presented with a list of outdated packages:

Package 1: Version 1.2.3 (current) - Version 2.0.0 (latest)
Package 3: Version 7.8.9 (current) - Version 8.0.0 (latest)

Update packages to the most recent version

Code:

pyats version update

Motivation:
Keeping all packages updated ensures you benefit from the latest improvements, features, and bug fixes. The pyats version update command automates the update process, applying the latest versions to all upgradable components, thereby enhancing overall performance and security of your pyATS environment.

Explanation:

• pyats: The base command for engaging with pyATS.
• version: Indicates a focus on version management operations.
• update: Directs pyATS to upgrade all out-of-date packages to their latest versions available.

Example output:
Executing this update command results in:

Updating Package 1 to version 2.0.0
Package 2 is up-to-date
Updating Package 3 to version 8.0.0
Updates complete!

Update or downgrade packages to a specific version

Code:

pyats version update 2.0.0

Motivation:
Sometimes, specific projects or environments may require a precise version of packages for compatibility or testing purposes. Whether you’re aiming to experience a feature exclusive to a specific version or need to avoid an unexpected bug in the latest release, this capability ensures you’re running exactly what you need.

Explanation:

• pyats: The command to launch pyATS operations.
• version: Conveys that you’re working with version-related tasks.
• update: Commences the version adjustment process.
• 2.0.0: Represents the precise version you wish to install for all packages that offer it.

Example output:
Upon specifying a version number, the system feedback might look like:

Updating Package 1 to version 2.0.0
Reverting Package 2 to version 2.0.0
Updating Package 3 to version 2.0.0
Specified version updates completed!

Conclusion:

Utilizing the pyats version command streamlines the management of your pyATS testing environment, offering insightful controls over version details, updates, and specific adjustments. This flexibility leads to more robust, secure, and efficient networking test setups. Whether ensuring up-to-date packages or reverting to reliable versions, mastering these commands empowers users to maintain their testing frameworks optimally.