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targetcli review

Free#28 of 28 in Storage Management Software

A free Linux CLI for configuring LIO targets, backstores, exports, and initiator access.

6.1/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

targetcli is an open-source command-line interface for configuring the Linux LIO kernel target subsystem. It is aimed at storage administrators who need to create backstores, configure target exports, and manage initiator access on Linux systems. The product is a self-hosted tool, not a hosted storage-management service, so it fits teams working directly with Linux storage targets rather than buyers seeking a managed platform. Its role is specific: configuring target objects and their access, rather than covering every stage of storage operations.

Protocol support is a key part of that focused role. targetcli supports iSCSI, Fibre Channel, iSER, SRP, and loopback, giving administrators several transport options for exposing storage to initiators. The listed capabilities include managing target configuration on Linux, creating and managing backstores, and configuring exports and initiator access. This makes it relevant where LIO is the target subsystem in use; it is not presented as a general-purpose interface for unrelated storage systems. The command-line approach also suits administrators comfortable with terminal-based configuration, while teams looking for a graphical workflow should consider a different tool.

There is no charge for the open-source product, and the published product details identify no paid tiers to weigh against one another. Its narrow configuration focus is also its main trade-off: the product description does not position it for storage monitoring, planning, or lifecycle management. Organizations that need those broader functions should look at a storage-management platform covering them, rather than treating targetcli as a complete management suite. Choose targetcli when the task is configuring Linux LIO targets and exports; look elsewhere when the priority is a broader storage operations experience or a hosted service.

targetcli pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Configures LIO kernel target objects from a command line.
    • Creates and manages storage backstores and target exports.
    • Supports iSCSI, Fibre Channel, iSER, SRP, and loopback.
  • Where it doesn't
    • Requires Linux; it is not a cross-platform tool.
    • Uses a command-line interface rather than a graphical management console.
    • Focuses on target configuration, not broader storage monitoring or lifecycle management.

targetcli fact sheet, pricing and score →

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