The article talks about whether the GUI or Graphical User Interface is supposed to replace CLI or Command Line Interface. However, both are pretty popular and have their share of popularity among people.
1. CLI vs. GUI - The War Continues
GUI or Graphical User Interface is supposed to replace CLI or Command Line Interface. In order to
decide which interface is here to stay it is important to know what are their advantages and
disadvantages. Let’s have a look at some of the crucial pointers.
CLI Device Management Framework uses this interface and was introduced first. However, the more
casual computer users opt for the GUI. However, here’s a brief overview of the benefits and drawbacks of
both these interfaces.
Which is easier to use?
Due to the familiarity and memorization required to operate a CLI interface, the new users might find it
more difficult to operate and navigate it successfully. On the other hand, the GUI is a better choice as it is
easier to learn; and people pick up the details about its operation pretty fast. However, learning to work
with the mouse to use it might seem difficult for new users as well. In addition to this the CLI users have
better control of the file systems and OS in this kind of interface. Although the Graphical User Interface
offers better control over the file system and the OS, but those who require completing particular tasks will
have to take aid of the CLI.
Multitasking
Although there are several command line environments that allow multitasking, but all of them do not offer
the same kind of ability to see various things at one go. There are terminals in the desktop environment
that enable the use of various terminal windows at the same time. On the other hand, the GUI allows
viewing, controlling and manipulating various aspects. Thus making multitasking possible.
Appearance
For the CLI Device Management systems, there is no difference in their appearance. This means that
once the users get used to the CLI interface, they do not require to get introduced to a new appearance
again. However, the Graphical User Interfaces will alter with specific programmes. Therefore, the users
require spending more and more time and effort every time the changes take place.
Resources
The CLI Device Management Framework does not demand lots of the computer’s resources. While using
the command line interface, there is hardly any requirement to install any graphical layer. This, in turn,
leads to the saving of the storage space. But the GUI demands a lot more resources.
In addition to these there are several other aspects based on which the CLI and GUI are differentiated.