nANT get command

Just a quick aide-memoir about this useful command. It’s primary purpose is to get data from a URL, such as data from an HTTP source or from a UNC share.

However, it can also be very useful in sending commands over the web, in the event certain conditions come true. The command can also be used to POST HTML data instead. You’ll still get data back, but you don’t have to do anything with it! Just stick it somewhere where you know it will get deleted in your pre-build actions.

For instance, I own a Nabaztag rabbit. There’s an API for this whereby I can send HTTP requests to get the rabbit to speak, light up or move its ears.

Using the <get> command I can make the rabbit flash red and tell me about every broken build!

It doesn’t have to be a rabbit of course. You might have an HTTP API for sending text messages, or some other connected device, such as an Ambiant Devices Orb.

You can get the full info about the <get> command from the NAnt task reference page.