Essential plugins list in Jenkins - Commands & Configuration

Introduction

Jenkins uses plugins to add extra features and connect with other tools. Installing essential plugins helps you build, test, and deploy software smoothly without writing extra code.

When you want to connect Jenkins with GitHub to get your code automatically.

When you need to run tests and see results inside Jenkins.

When you want to send notifications after a build finishes.

When you want to deploy your app to a cloud or server automatically.

When you want to manage pipelines visually with easy steps.

Commands

This command installs essential Jenkins plugins: 'git' for Git integration, 'workflow-aggregator' for pipeline support, 'blueocean' for a modern UI, and 'credentials-binding' for managing secrets.

Terminal

jenkins-plugin-cli --plugins git workflow-aggregator blueocean credentials-binding

Expected Output

Installing plugins: git, workflow-aggregator, blueocean, credentials-binding

Downloading plugin: git

Downloading plugin: workflow-aggregator

Downloading plugin: blueocean

Downloading plugin: credentials-binding

Plugins installed successfully

Restart Jenkins to apply the newly installed plugins so they become active and ready to use.

Terminal

systemctl restart jenkins

Expected Output

No output (command runs silently)

List all installed plugins to verify that the essential plugins are installed and active.

Terminal

jenkins-cli list-plugins

Expected Output

git	4.11.3	active

workflow-aggregator	2.6	active

blueocean	1.25.3	active

credentials-binding	1.27	active

Key Concept

If you remember nothing else, remember: Jenkins plugins add powerful features that let you connect tools and automate tasks easily.

Common Mistakes

Trying to use plugins without installing them first

Jenkins will not recognize or run features from plugins that are not installed.

Always install required plugins using jenkins-plugin-cli or the Jenkins UI before using their features.

Not restarting Jenkins after installing plugins

New plugins may not load or work correctly until Jenkins restarts.

Restart Jenkins after plugin installation to activate them.

Installing too many unnecessary plugins

It can slow down Jenkins and increase security risks.

Install only essential plugins needed for your tasks.

Summary

Use jenkins-plugin-cli to install essential plugins like git, workflow-aggregator, blueocean, and credentials-binding.

Restart Jenkins to activate the installed plugins.

Verify plugin installation with jenkins-cli list-plugins.