por Schedule tasks in Linux from the terminal it will allow you perform tasks automatically, without having to spend time doing them yourself. To schedule the execution of tasks in a GNU/Linux operating system, an operating system for programming, you have two main commands and tools such as AT and Cronwhich will allow you to execute actions only once and then delete them, and set the repetition of a task at a set time, respectively.
In a sector like IT, where automation and adaptability These types of programming tools play a fundamental role in Linux, an operating system for programming. Not only will they save you work and time, but they will allow you to obtain better results in your projects of technological development.
AT command to schedule tasks in Linux
He Linux programming AT command allows you to launch an action (via standard commands or script) later specifying time and date. Scheduling a task with AT implies that it will be executed only once, and then deleted. Among the functions performed by AT, is that of make a single backup, turn off the system at the time you indicatesend a reminder at a specific time via email, update your equipment at a certain time, among others.
AT of Linux programmingwhich is an operating system for programming, uses certain main commands such as:
at : This command in Linux you can use it to execute commands at a specific time.
atq : is the command to schedule tasks in Linux responsible for listing users’ pending jobs. If used from root useryou will be able to see the tasks scheduled by all users, but if you use it from a normal user, it will only list your own pending tasks.
atrm – Using this item or command at Linux will allow you to delete the jobs you specify.
at -l : Executing this command to program Linux serves the purpose of viewing the entries programmed by AT.
at -c : With this command, it is used to schedule tasks in Linux, you will be able to see which command sequence is programmed to carry out a specific task.
Cron
Cron is a daemon or background process of Linux that runs when you log in to the system and that is responsible for check the existence of processes, script or tasks in Linux. Cron uses the Crontab text file of the at Linux command, which creates a list of the tasks to be executed, through a contrab file.
Unlike the AT command for programming Linux, cron will not forget the task after executing it, but will repeat it on the day and time you set, with the frequency you indicate. This option will make it easier for you scheduling tasks that need to be carried out repetitively from time to time, preventing you from having to manually access it so many times a day to carry out simple tasks or check that they have been carried out.
With these tools to schedule tasks in Linux you can perform functions such as edit a file entry or replace it, manage the contrab file of other users, etc. Cron and Crontab on Linux use a series of commands and preconfigured text strings, in order to run the script in a faster and more automated way to program Linux.
What is the next step?
Without a doubt, task scheduling in Linux is one of the tools that allows your Automation to speed up your work rhythms and facilitate continuous delivery of your project; Therefore, now that you have learned how to schedule tasks in Linux through the AT command and tools like Cron and Crontab, take the next step and continue training about this and other elements that will allow you improve your technological development processes through our DevOps & Cloud Computing Full Stack Bootcampwhere in less than 6 months you can learn everything you need to become an expert in these topics and thus obtain a advantage over your competitors in the IT sector.