Abstract: A method and apparatus relating to a CLI session tool that works in the HTTP environment of web-based applications is provided. The CLI session tool has a pre-defined set of base commands and allows a user to dynamically add their own commands to the CLI session tool. In accordance with one example embodiment, in an electronic server device in communication with a network, a method is provided for interacting with an application or database. The method includes receiving a request for information from a command line interface client. The request is mapped to a server side component, such as an instance of an action class. The action class instance queries the application or database for the information requested by the command line interface client. The action class instance then instructs a controller servlet to select and use a server page to construct an outgoing user interface.

Abstract: A scripting service receives requests from a browser client that includes an executing web browser. The request is then translated into a command line interface (CLI) command. The CLI command may be displayed for a user to understand how browser requests are translated into corresponding CLI commands. In addition, a translated command may be stored in a script of other translated commands. The script may be stored persistently for subsequent use. The script may also be passed to a CLI client for execution. The scripting service is especially well adapted for use with web based application such as a management application that manages items in a distributed environment.