What is cui specified?
CUI: Character User Interface
CUI, or Character User Interface (sometimes also referred to as a Command Line Interface or CLI), is a way for users to interact with a computer or software program using text-based commands. Instead of graphical elements like windows, icons, and menus (as found in a GUI), a CUI relies on users typing specific instructions into a terminal or command prompt.
- Interaction: Users communicate with the system by typing commands, which are then processed and executed by the system. The system usually provides feedback in the form of text displayed in the terminal.
- Commands: Specific keywords or sequences of characters used to instruct the system to perform a particular action.
- Advantages: CUI can be very efficient for experienced users who know the commands well. It often requires fewer system resources than a GUI, making it suitable for older hardware or embedded systems. CUIs can also be automated using scripts.
- Disadvantages: Can be difficult to learn for new users who are unfamiliar with the commands. Requires memorization or frequent referencing of command lists. Lacks the visual intuitiveness of a GUI.
- Examples: Common CUIs include the command prompt in Windows (cmd.exe) and the terminal in macOS and Linux (terminal). Examples of operating systems that primarily used CUIs include MS-DOS and early versions of Unix. Software development tools and network administration tools often provide CUI interfaces.
- Use Cases: System administration (system%20administration), scripting (scripting), and development (development) are common scenarios where CUIs are still frequently used. They are also valuable in embedded systems and situations where minimal resource usage is critical.