Automating tasks on Linux

Tutorial – Cron

Article from Issue 301/2025
Author(s):

Learn how to leverage cron for routine maintenance, backup automation, and critical system monitoring to enhance operational reliability.

In the world of Linux and Unix-like systems, automation is key to efficiency. Whether it's running backups, updating system packages, or executing custom scripts, cron is the go-to tool for scheduling and automating repetitive tasks. This time-tested utility has been a fundamental part of Unix-based operating systems for decades, providing users with a simple yet powerful way to manage scheduled jobs.

Despite its simplicity, cron is often underutilized or misunderstood. Many users struggle with writing proper cron expressions or debugging jobs that don't execute as expected. In this article, I will explore how cron works, its syntax, and practical use cases to help you master task automation on Linux. Whether you're a beginner looking to schedule your first job or an advanced user aiming to fine-tune your automation workflow, this guide will provide you with the knowledge to make the most of cron.

Installation and Setup

On Ubuntu, cron is usually installed by default, but in some cases, it may need to be installed manually. To check if it is already available on your system, open a terminal and run the command

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