What is the Windows version of cron?

Question

A Google search turned up software that performs the same functions as cron, but nothing built into Windows.

I'm running Windows XP Professional, but advice for any version of Windows would be potentially helpful to someone.

Is there also a way to invoke this feature (which based on answers is called the Task Scheduler) programatically or via the command line?

Answer 1

Not exactly a Windows version, however you can use Cygwin's crontab. For install instructions, see here: here.

Answer 2

Check out the excellent Cronical program at https://github.com/mgefvert/Cronical

It is a .NET program that reads a text file with unix-like cron lines. Very convenient to use. It will send emails if stdout just like unix cron. It even supports acting as the service runner.

Answer 3

The At command is now deprecated

you can use the SCHTASKS

Answer 4

Use the Windows Task Scheduler to schedule tasks over time and dates.

Answer 5

1. You can use the Scheduled-Tasks API in PowerShell along with a config.json file for parameters input. I guess the minimum limitation is 5 minutes. A sample tutorial for very basic Schedule Tasks creation via APIs

2. You can use the schtasks.exe via cmd too. I could see the minute modifier limitation to 1 minute on executing schtasks.exe /Create /?. Anyways AT is now deprecated.

Anyways, I am working on a tool to behave like CRON. I will update here if it is successfull.

Answer 6

The Windows "AT" command is very similar to cron. It is available through the command line.