cron

Schedule recurring and one-time tasks using cron, crontab, at, and launchd.

55|4|Updated Feb 5, 2026

Search Tags:#automation #scheduling #cron #crontab #launchd #system-administration #at

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/bug-ops/zeph --skill cron-bug-ops

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: cron
Source: https://github.com/bug-ops/zeph/tree/main/.zeph/skills/cron
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/bug-ops/zeph --skill cron-bug-ops

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Cron-based scheduling automates recurring and one-time tasks on Unix-like systems without manual intervention.

Core Features & Use Cases

Manage crontab entries to schedule jobs with precise timing.
Schedule tasks using at for one-off execution.
Deploy cross-platform scheduling with launchd on macOS and unify debugging/logging of scheduled tasks for reliability.

Quick Start

Install a scheduled job using cron or launchd and verify it runs as expected.

Frequently Asked Questions about cron

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I schedule recurring tasks with cron on Unix-like systems?▼

Cron scheduling automates recurring tasks on Unix-like systems by managing crontab entries with precise timing configurations. You can automate jobs without manual intervention by defining execution schedules directly in the crontab file.

What is the difference between cron, at, and launchd for task scheduling?▼

Cron handles recurring schedules, at executes one-time tasks, and launchd deploys cross-platform scheduling on macOS. Using these tools together provides unified debugging and logging for reliable automation across different environments.

Can I use launchd for cross-platform task scheduling on macOS?▼

Yes, launchd supports cross-platform task scheduling on macOS, allowing you to deploy scheduled jobs and unify debugging and logging. It ensures reliable automation alongside cron and at for comprehensive system administration.

How do I schedule a one-time task using the at command?▼

The at command schedules one-off task execution on Unix-like systems. You specify the timing and the command, and the system queues it for a single automated run without requiring a recurring crontab entry.

Why does my cron job fail to run as expected?▼

Cron jobs often fail due to environment handling issues or incorrect timing configuration. Debugging scheduled tasks requires verifying crontab entries, checking environment variables, and reviewing execution logs to ensure safe, auditable task execution.

Do I need crontab to manage scheduled jobs for software operations?▼

Yes, crontab management is required to install and maintain scheduled jobs using cron. It provides the interface for precise timing configuration, environment handling, and safe, auditable task execution for reliable automation.