Getting Started with Aptos CLI and Move

Development
, , ,
1

If you’re looking to get started with the Aptos blockchain, the first step is to install the Aptos Command Line Interface (CLI). The CLI is a powerful tool that allows you to compile and test Move contracts, interact with the Aptos blockchain, and manage network nodes. Here’s a brief guide to help you set up the Aptos CLI and create your first simple contract.

Step 1: Install the Aptos CLI

To begin, you’ll need to install the Aptos CLI on your system. The CLI is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. You can find detailed installation instructions on the Aptos developer website. Follow the steps provided to get the CLI up and running on your machine ⁠1.

Step 2: Set Up CLI Configuration

Once the CLI is installed, you’ll need to configure it. Run the aptos init command and follow the prompts to set up the network, faucet, and credentials. This step ensures that you can interact with the Aptos blockchain without having to repeatedly enter your details ⁠2.

Step 3: Create Your First Move Contract

With the CLI configured, you’re ready to start working with Move contracts. Move is the programming language developed for the Aptos blockchain. Here’s how you can compile a simple Move contract:

  1. Create a directory for your Move package and include a Move.toml configuration file.
  2. Write your Move contract in a .move file within this directory.
  3. Compile your Move package by running the following command, replacing <your-package-directory> with the path to your Move package directory:
aptos move compile --package-dir <your-package-directory>

If your Move.toml file specifies any named addresses, you’ll need to include them using the --named-addresses parameter ⁠3.

Step 4: Test Your Move Contract

After compiling your contract, you should test it to ensure it behaves as expected. You can run unit tests for your Move contracts with the following command:

aptos move test --package-dir <your-package-directory>

This command compiles and runs tests, so make sure to include any optional parameters you used during compilation ⁠3.

Step 5: Explore Further

Now that you’ve set up your environment and tested a simple Move contract, you can explore more advanced features of the Aptos CLI and Move language. The Aptos developer documentation provides comprehensive guides and tutorials to help you expand your knowledge and skills ⁠4.

Remember, if you encounter any issues or have questions, the Aptos community is available to help through GitHub Discussions. Good luck on your journey to building on the Aptos blockchain!

Sources:

  1. https://aptos.dev/tools/aptos-cli/install-cli/
  2. Setup CLI Initial Configuration | Aptos Docs (en)
  3. Working With Move Contracts | Aptos Docs (en)
  4. https://aptos.dev
1 Like