Running pod install through plink gives sh:1: command not found: pod

2 min read 23-10-2024

the ifix

Running pod install through plink gives sh:1: command not found: pod

If you've encountered the error message sh: 1: command not found: pod while trying to run pod install through Plink, you're not alone. This issue typically arises when the system can't locate the CocoaPods command-line tool, which is essential for managing library dependencies in iOS projects. Let's break down the problem and provide a clear solution.

Original Code Scenario

Here's the original situation you might have encountered:

$ plink user@remote-server 'pod install'
sh: 1: command not found: pod

This command aims to execute pod install on a remote server using Plink, a command-line tool from PuTTY that allows you to connect to remote servers via SSH. The error indicates that the pod command isn't recognized on the remote server.

Understanding the Issue

The root of this problem typically lies in the environment configuration on the remote server. When you log in via Plink, it may not source the user's profile files (like .bash_profile, .bashrc, etc.), which contain paths to user-installed executables like CocoaPods.

Step-by-Step Solution

Check Installation of CocoaPods: First, confirm that CocoaPods is installed on the remote server. You can do this by logging in directly to the server and running:
```
pod --version
```
If you see a version number, CocoaPods is installed. If not, you can install it using:
```
sudo gem install cocoapods
```
Locate the Pod Command: Use the which command to find where pod is installed:
```
which pod
```
This will give you the path to the pod executable.
Set the Correct PATH: If the pod command works when logged in directly but fails with Plink, you may need to add the CocoaPods installation path to your PATH environment variable within the command you're running. You can do this by modifying your command as follows:
```
plink user@remote-server 'export PATH="$PATH:/path/to/cocoapods/bin"; pod install'
```
Make sure to replace /path/to/cocoapods/bin with the actual path found using the which pod command.
Persisting the PATH Change: For a more permanent solution, you can add the export line to your user's profile file (e.g., .bashrc or .bash_profile) on the remote server, ensuring that it loads every time you connect.
Using a Shell Command: Alternatively, you could use a full shell command invocation with Plink:
```
plink user@remote-server 'bash -l -c "pod install"'
```
The -l flag invokes a login shell, which sources the user's profile files.

Additional Considerations

Using SSH Key Authentication: If you frequently connect to the server, setting up SSH key authentication can streamline the login process.
Network Latency: Be mindful of any network issues that might affect your connection or command execution time.
CocoaPods Version: Ensure that you are using a compatible version of CocoaPods with your project.

Conclusion

Resolving the sh: 1: command not found: pod error when running pod install through Plink involves ensuring that CocoaPods is installed on the remote server and that its path is correctly configured. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently manage your iOS dependencies using CocoaPods from a remote server environment.

Useful Resources

By understanding these steps and maintaining proper configuration, you'll streamline your development process and reduce downtime when managing dependencies for your iOS applications.