Mastering Azure CLI with Azure DevOps Extension on Windows

Mastering the Azure DevOps Extension for Azure CLI with Azure DevOps Server​

In today’s dynamic development landscape, efficiency and seamless integration are key. Whether you’re managing code repositories, automating builds, or tracking work items, leveraging the right tools can make a world of difference. The Azure DevOps Extension for Azure CLI empowers Windows users and IT professionals to manage and automate tasks on their on-premises Azure DevOps Server—formerly known as TFS—directly from the command line. In this article, we’ll walk you through installing and configuring the extension, authenticating with your server using a Personal Access Token (PAT), and running everyday tasks with clear, step-by-step guidance.

Why Use the Azure DevOps Extension for Azure CLI?​

Using the Azure CLI along with the Azure DevOps Extension bridges the gap between traditional web interfaces and the modern era of automation and scripting. Here are some key benefits:

• Streamlined Automation: Execute commands in scripts, automate builds and deployments, and integrate Azure DevOps with other tools seamlessly.
• Consistency Across Environments: Whether you’re working on a local development environment or managing frictionless continuous integration (CI) pipelines, the command-line approach offers uniformity.
• Enhanced Troubleshooting: Quick feedback loops and error messages help diagnose configuration or connectivity issues faster.

By incorporating these advantages into your workflow on Windows, you can minimize downtime, improve productivity, and maintain robust control over your development processes.

Step 1: Installing the Azure CLI​

Before diving into Azure DevOps management, you first need to ensure that the Azure CLI is available. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Download and Install:
   Follow the Azure CLI Installation Guide to download and install the CLI on your Windows machine. The installation process is straightforward and supports multiple platforms, ensuring that your Windows setup is good to go.
2. Verify the Installation:
   Once installed, open your command prompt or PowerShell and run the following command:
   • Command:
     az --version
   This command displays the installed version, ensuring that the Azure CLI is correctly set up.

Quick Tip: Always use the latest version of the CLI to benefit from improved features and bug fixes.

Step 2: Installing the Azure DevOps Extension​

With the CLI installed, the next step is to add the Azure DevOps Extension, which provides commands specific to Azure DevOps operations.

1. Add the Extension:
   Use the following command to install the extension:
   • Command:
     az extension add --name azure-devops
   This command pulls the Azure DevOps extension, integrating it into the Azure CLI environment.
2. Verify Installation:
   After installation, verify that the extension is active by listing all installed extensions:
   • Command:
     az extension list
   You should see an entry corresponding to the Azure DevOps extension.

Note: This extension bridges the functionality gap, enabling your CLI to interact directly with your Azure DevOps Server.

Step 3: Configuring Azure DevOps CLI for Your Server​

Unlike Azure DevOps Services in the cloud, Azure DevOps Server is self-hosted. A critical step in setting up the extension involves configuring it with your server’s custom URL and the specific project collection.

1. Set the Default Organization and Project:
   Configure the default settings using your organization’s URL and project name:
   • Command:
     az devops configure --defaults organization=https://your-server-url/collection-name project=your-project-name
   Example:
   If your on-premises instance is hosted at devops.mycompany.com with a default collection, the command might look like this:
   • Command:
     az devops configure --defaults organization=https://devops.mycompany.com/DefaultCollection project=MyProject
2. Why Set a Default?
   By setting defaults, you eliminate the need to specify the organization and project for every command. This ensures consistency across commands and reduces the chance of errors due to misconfiguration.

Insight: For those managing multiple projects or environments, consider scripting these configuration commands to seamlessly switch contexts.

Step 4: Authenticating with Azure DevOps Server Using PAT​

Azure DevOps Server does not support the standard Azure login mechanism. Instead, you must authenticate using a Personal Access Token (PAT). This method offers a secure way to grant necessary permissions to the CLI without exposing sensitive credentials.

1. Generate a PAT:
   • Navigate: Open your Azure DevOps Server UI.
   • Access Settings: Click on the User Settings (typically represented by a gear icon).
   • Create a Token: Select Personal Access Tokens and then click on “New Token”.
   • Choose Scopes: Pick the required scopes (e.g., Code Read & Write, Work Items) that match your workload.
   • Copy the Token: Make sure to copy your PAT immediately as you might not be able to view it later.
2. Authenticate Using Your PAT:
   Once your PAT is ready, authenticate with the following command:
   • Command:
     az devops login --organization https://your-server-url/collection-name
   You will be prompted to paste your PAT into the command line.
   Alternatively, you can pass the token directly:
   • Command:
     az devops login --organization https://your-server-url/collection-name --pat <YOUR_PERSONAL_ACCESS_TOKEN>

Security Reminder: Treat your PAT like a password—store it securely and avoid sharing it.

Step 5: Running Azure DevOps CLI Commands​

Now that you’re authenticated and configured, you’re set to harness the full power of the Azure DevOps CLI. Here are a few commonly used commands to get you started:

1. List Repositories:
   • Command:
     az repos list
   This command retrieves all repositories within the designated project. It’s a quick way to verify your setup and inspect available source code.
2. Create a New Work Item:
   Whether you’re tracking tasks, bugs, or features, creating work items via the CLI is both efficient and scriptable.
   • Command:
     az boards work-item create --title "Fix bug in login" --type Bug
   You can tailor this command to include additional fields and attributes as needed.
3. Queue a Pipeline or Build:
   Triggering builds and pipelines can significantly streamline your CI/CD workflows:
   • Command:
     az pipelines run --name MyPipeline
   This command queues a pipeline build, making your continuous integrations smoother.

Example in Action:
Imagine a scenario where a bug is discovered in your login module during nightly integration tests. With the Azure DevOps CLI, you can quickly create a work item to track the bug and even trigger a new build—all from a pre-configured script. Such automation minimizes manual intervention and accelerates resolution times.

Troubleshooting Common Issues​

Even with careful setup, you might encounter a few hurdles along the way. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide to help you overcome common issues:

• “Invalid organization” Error:
  • Check that the organization URL used in your configuration exactly matches that of your Azure DevOps Server.
  • Ensure there are no typos or incorrect collection names.
• Authentication Fails:
  • Make sure you’re using a valid PAT that hasn’t expired.
  • Confirm that the PAT has the necessary permissions for the operations you’re trying to perform.
• “Command not found” Error:
  • Verify that the Azure CLI and the Azure DevOps extension are installed correctly.
  • Run az extension list to confirm the extension’s presence.
• Network Connectivity Issues:
  • Confirm that your machine can reach your on-premises server.
  • Check firewall or proxy settings that may be impeding the connection.

Pro Tip: If you encounter errors, running commands with verbose or debug flags (like --debug) can provide additional insights into what might be going wrong.

Best Practices for Seamless Operations​

To maximize your efficiency with the Azure DevOps CLI on your Windows system, consider these best practices:

• Regularly Update Tools:
  Keep both the Azure CLI and its extensions updated. Updates include new features, improved security, and bug fixes that ensure smoother operations.
• Automate Repetitive Tasks:
  Create batch scripts or PowerShell scripts to automate routine commands. This minimizes manual input and reduces the potential for errors.
• Backup Your Configuration:
  Maintain a record of your configuration commands and PAT settings (securely, of course). This is especially useful when migrating to new machines or troubleshooting unexpected behavior.
• Leverage Documentation:
  Microsoft documentation and community forums are excellent resources. When in doubt, consult the official guides for additional parameters and advanced use cases.
• Integrate with CI/CD Pipelines:
  Use the Azure CLI in tandem with your continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) setup. Automating tasks like code deployment and work item tracking can significantly speed up your workflows.

Conclusion​

The Azure DevOps Extension for Azure CLI opens a new frontier in managing your on-premises Azure DevOps Server, whether you’re a seasoned IT professional or a Windows enthusiast venturing into automation. With a few simple steps—installing the Azure CLI, adding the extension, configuring your defaults, and authenticating using a PAT—you can transform routine operational tasks into streamlined, automated workflows.
This step-by-step guide not only detailed the installation and configuration process but also highlighted practical examples of running everyday commands. By adhering to best practices and learning the troubleshooting techniques discussed, you’re well-equipped to harness the full potential of integrating Azure DevOps with your Azure CLI on Windows.
Embrace the power of automation and simplify your development processes. Happy coding, and may your pipelines always run smoothly!

---

Keep an eye on WindowsForum.com for more in-depth updates, expert insights, and tutorials on Microsoft Windows and IT automation.

---

Source: Medium