Learning Objectives

Now, use Python to call that script. Here’s a basic example:

  • Understand the differences and similarities between PowerShell, PowerCLI, and Python.
  • Learn basic scripting structures in PowerShell and Python.
  • Execute your first script that combines Python and PowerCLI to automate a simple VMware task.

My Personal Repository on GitHub

# List VMs and output to file
Get-VM | Select-Object Name, PowerState | Out-File -FilePath C:Tempvm_list.txt

Prerequisites

  • Completed Article 1 (PowerCLI and Python are installed).
  • Access to a VMware vSphere environment (lab or production).
  • A Windows system (PowerCLI requires Windows PowerShell).

1. PowerShell, PowerCLI, and Python — How They Work Together

  • PowerShell: A Windows command-line shell and scripting language.
  • PowerCLI: A set of modules that plug into PowerShell, letting you control VMware vSphere, NSX, and Aria with simple commands.
  • Python: A versatile scripting language, popular for orchestrating and extending automation.

Example:

2. Basic Syntax: PowerShell vs Python

PowerShell Basics

  • Cmdlets start with a verb-noun pattern (Get-VM, Start-VM).
  • Variables use $.
  • Comments start with #.

Replace <vcenter-address>, <username>, and <password> with your real values.

Replace <vcenter-address>, <username>, and <password> with your real values.

By the end of this article, you will:

3. Your First Automated Task: Calling PowerCLI from Python

You’ve learned the basics of both PowerShell and Python, and you’ve seen how to use Python to execute a PowerCLI script. This opens up a world of automation possibilities, you can now combine VMware commands with Python’s data handling and logic.

Step 1: Create a PowerShell Script

# List of VM names
vm_list = ['Web01', 'App01', 'DB01']# List all VMs
Get-VMThe simplest way for Python to interact with PowerCLI is by executing PowerShell scripts from within a Python program.Legend:

You can run PowerCLI cmdlets directly in PowerShell, or orchestrate more complex logic by having Python scripts call PowerShell commands.

Step 2: Execute PowerShell Script from Python

# Print the output (if any)
print("Script Output:", completed_process.stdout)
if completed_process.stderr:
print("Errors:", completed_process.stderr)

import subprocessLet’s start by writing a script that lists all VMs and saves them to a text file.Save this as list_vms.ps1:

4. Diagram: Workflow — Python Driving PowerCLI

# Import PowerCLI
Import-Module VMware.PowerCLIIn Article 3, you’ll connect to vCenter and retrieve detailed VM info using this combined approach.

Example:

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