Difference between at and cron
| Feature | at |
cron |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Schedule one-time tasks | Schedule recurring tasks |
| Execution | Runs a command or script once at a specified time | Runs commands or scripts at specified intervals |
| Syntax | at [time] |
Uses crontab syntax (* * * * * command) |
| Interval | Single execution | Repeated execution (minute, hour, day, month, day of week) |
| Use Cases | Delayed tasks, maintenance tasks, one-off jobs | Regular backups, scheduled reports, periodic tasks |
| Job Management | View with atq, remove with atrm |
Edit with crontab -e, list with crontab -l, remove with crontab -r |
| Configuration File | No separate file, commands are entered directly | Uses crontab file or /etc/crontab |
| User Level Control | Yes, user-specific job scheduling | Yes, user-specific crontabs |
| Examples | `echo “echo ‘Task done'” | at 5pm` |
at Command in Linux with Examples
In the world of Linux operating systems, there exists a powerful tool known as the “AT command.” The AT command provides users with the ability to schedule tasks to be executed at a later time, offering a convenient way to automate processes without manual intervention. Whether you need to run a script, execute a command, or perform a system task at a specific time, the AT command provides the flexibility to accomplish these tasks efficiently. In this article, we will delve into the details of the AT command in Linux, exploring its syntax, options, and practical examples.