sfdk-emulator-start

Start an emulator

$ sfdk emulator start [name]

$ sfdk emulator stop [name]

$ sfdk emulator status [name]

$ sfdk emulator list

sfdk-emulator-start

The `sfdk-emulator-start` command is a Salesforce CLI command used to initiate a local emulator environment for testing and developing mobile applications that integrate with Salesforce data.

It allows developers to prototype and debug mobile app functionality without requiring a connection to a live Salesforce org, speeding up development and enabling offline testing. This is particularly useful for building Salesforce mobile SDK applications.

It sets up a local server that mimics the behavior of a Salesforce instance, allowing the mobile app to interact with mock data and services. This command usually involves configuring the emulator with appropriate settings like API version and user credentials (mock credentials), enabling developers to simulate real-world scenarios and validate application behavior under different conditions.

The emulator environment may not perfectly replicate the behavior of a production Salesforce org. Data and functionality are limited to the configured mock data and services. Authentication in the emulator is typically handled with mock credentials, and might not fully represent the authentication mechanisms used in a real Salesforce org. The command `sfdk-emulator-start` is related to the older 'forceios' tool. Salesforce has introduced changes that affects it.

While `sfdk-emulator-start` itself might not have explicit parameters, the emulator's behavior is often determined by configuration files or environment variables.

These configurations typically define the mock data to be used, the authentication settings, and other relevant parameters. Check the Salesforce Mobile SDK documentation for details on configuring the emulator.

Common issues include incorrect configuration settings, port conflicts, or incompatibility with the installed version of the Salesforce CLI. Ensure that the necessary dependencies and environment variables are properly set up before running the command. Check the emulator's logs for error messages to help diagnose and resolve problems. Always keep your Salesforce CLI updated.

The `sfdk-emulator-start` command typically requires the Salesforce CLI to be installed and configured correctly. You also will need the Mobile SDK installed and configured for your target platform (iOS or Android).

The `sfdk-emulator-start` command evolved to streamline mobile app development within the Salesforce ecosystem. It addressed the need for a faster and more controlled testing environment by providing a local emulator that eliminates the dependency on a live Salesforce instance during initial development phases.

It was initially part of the `forceios` toolset which deprecated. The command is an integral part of the Salesforce DX (SFDX) development workflow, enabling developers to adopt modern development practices, such as source-driven development and continuous integration. Over time, it has been enhanced to support more advanced features and closer integration with the overall Salesforce development platform.

sfdx(1), forceios(1)