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Last updated: Jul 29, 2021

How to use the Expect in bash scripting?

Here you will find out:

  • what the Expect scripting language is
  • how to use the AUTOEXPECT command
  • examples of using Expect in shell scripts
  • when DiskInternals can help you

Are you ready? Let's read!

What is the Expect scripting language?

Much like a bot that automates your scripts, the Expect scripting language works automatically, without needing user interactions. The Expect scripting language requires an “Expecting input,” and then uses the input to run an Expect script without user interaction. However, if you do not install Expect, Expect scripting won’t work on your system. To install Expect on Debian and related distributions, type:

To install Expect on Debian

Or, for CentOS:

To install Expect on CentOS

Expect commands for interactive processes

If you are attempting to run interactive processes, here are the Expect commands you should know about.

  • Send: send replies or strings to a process/program
  • Spawn: start a script, command, or program
  • Expect: wait on the output of a specific process or program
  • Interact: chat with your program, set predefined commands

How to use the AUTOEXPECT command

Interestingly, you can set up an automatic Expect shell script using the AUTOEXPECT command. This command is similar to the EXPECT command; the main difference is automation.

You will have to enter your Expect script as a parameter, including all answers to each question on your script to automate its process via the AUTOEXPECT command. The AUTOEXPECT command will save the answers in a new separate file.

Example:

Using the AUTOEXPECT command

The above command will create a new file, called “script.exp”.

Run the new file “script.exp”, and you will get the same answers you expected.

Examples of using Expect in shell scripts

Below are some examples of using expect in Bash scripting:

1. “Hello World”

The script below will expect a specific string, “hello”, in order to send “world” as a response.

Using expect in Hello World

2. Setting Timeout On Expect String

The default timeout is 10 seconds, but you can change this setting to any other value.

Setting Timeout On Expect String

3. If/Else Conditions

This is how to use if/else clauses in Expect scripts.

Using expect in If/Else Conditions

Note: Make sure you put the opening braces on the same line.

4. FOR Loops

FOR loops can also be adopted for repetitive tasks. To do so, you must identify three fields:

Using expect in FOR Loops

If you want to open Linux files in Windows easily

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