How to Use the Google Cloud Platform Console and CLI: Step-by-Step Guide [2025]

Google Cloud Platform Console
Author: Ashish KumarPublished: 03-Sept-2025

Cloud tools can feel tricky. This guide helps you use the Google Cloud Platform with ease, using both the web Console and the terminal CLI. 

From startups in the US, tech firms in the UK, developers in India, businesses in the UAE, to enterprises across Europe, many depend on GCP services. Each region uses the cloud differently. Some focus on gcp storage, some on Google Cloud Platform API, others on AI or compute. 

Learning to use both the console and CLI makes work smoother, no matter your location. This guide gives clear steps for 2025. 

Why learn both console and CLI 

The Google Cloud Platform console is simple and visual. It is best for people starting out. You see menus, charts, and can make changes with clicks. 

The gcloud CLI is fast. You type commands and create resources in seconds. Many in India and Europe use the CLI for automation in DevOps pipelines. In the US and UK, teams rely on CLI to handle large deployments. In the UAE, businesses prefer the console for billing and reports. 

Both tools matter. Together, they cover every need. 

Getting started with the Console 

  1. Sign in to Google Cloud Console. 
  1. Pick (or create) your project. 
  1. Visit navigation menu to access services: 
  1. Compute Engine, Cloud Storage, BigQuery, IAM, Cloud Shell. 
  1. Launch Cloud Shell to open a terminal in the browser. 
  1. Use search at top to find services like Compute, Storage, API. 
  1. Click a service (for example Cloud Storage). 
  1. Click “Create Bucket”, choose region, name, storage class. 
  1. Track usage and logs via Operations menu. 
  1. Explore IAM to manage roles and security. 

Step-by-Step via CLI (gcloud) 

  1. Open Cloud Shell in the Console. 
  1. Confirm your project: 

gcloud config list project 

  1. Or set a project manually: 

gcloud config set project YOUR_PROJECT_ID 

  1. Example: Create a storage bucket: 

gcloud storage buckets create gs://my-bucket-2025 –location=us-central1 

  1. List buckets: 

gcloud storage buckets list 

  1. Launch a VM: 

gcloud compute instances create my-vm \ 
 –zone=us-central1-a –machine-type=e2-medium 

  1. Remove the VM: 

gcloud compute instances delete my-vm –zone=us-central1-a 

  1. View logs or usage; for example export Compute report: 

gcloud compute project-info describe 
 

Why you need this guide 

  • The Google Cloud Platform console gives context, charts, and visual help. 
  • The CLI (gcloud) is faster, scriptable, and fits automation and bulk changes. 
  • Together, they help you manage GCP services list, costs, and access more clearly. 

Tips for smooth cloud work in 2025 

  • Use Console when you start or explore a new service. 
  • Use CLI when you repeat tasks or want to automate. 
  • Track billing, quotas, logs from the Operations section. 
  • Always keep access and roles safe in IAM. 

Conclusion 

This blog walks you through how to use the Google Cloud Platform with both the console and CLI. You learn to list services, launch tools, manage storage, compute, and use APIs. Combine that with security and logging, and you stay in control. 

We at TeleGlobal help you make smart use of GCP services, from consulting to managing your gcp storage, APIs, and cloud platforms. Count on us for clear guidance and real help.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between Google Cloud Platform console and CLI? 

Console offers visual ease. CLI is faster and scriptable. Use each where it fits. 

2. Which tool is best for Google Cloud Platform api setup?

Start on the console to test. Use the CLI to automate API setup and permissions. 

3. How many GCP services are available in 2025?

Over 200 managed services span compute, storage, AI, security, networking, and more. 

4. Can I manage gcp storage with both tools? 

Yes. You create and list buckets in console or via CLI like gcloud storage buckets create.

5. Is gcp cloud cost visible in console or CLI?

Cost visuals appear in the Console. CLI shows usage details you can export for reporting

6. Do i need google cloud platform consulting help? 

Consulting helps you choose the right services and set permissions, secure access, reduce cost, and optimize usage. 

Ashish Kumar

Ashish Kumar is the Founder and CEO of TeleGlobal, a forward-thinking IT solutions provider specializing in cloud modernization, Generative AI, and machine learning-driven innovations. With over a decade of experience in enterprise IT and digital transformation, Ashish is passionate about helping businesses leverage technology for scalable growth. Under his leadership, TeleGlobal has emerged as a trusted partner for cloud-native strategies, modernization roadmaps, and AI integration. He regularly shares insights on digital strategy, cloud architecture, and the evolving landscape of intelligent automation.

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