How to run cron jobs on windows

For those who are familiar with the Linux and Apache web server environment, running cron jobs are a common thing. Cron is basically a scheduled job that runs automatically at a certain time or interval. Image by RobotSkirts

Most people run cron jobs to eliminate human errors by automating maintenance tasks:

• Clearing error or access logs which take up disk space
• Backup up files or databases
• Moving files based on certain conditions
• Restarting services when a certain event happens

In the past, running cron jobs are considered to be a technical task as scripts and executable files need to be generated and tested.

Today, many software have emerged to help automate these maintenance tasks. One such software is VisualCron – a tool that runs commands/programs/tools/utilities at a predefined time, interval or event.

VisualCron is designed for Windows (client / server based) with the intention to simplify scheduling of windows tasks.

The following are some common tasks that can be automated:

• Manage files, read/write/delete and copy files
• Transfer files via (FTP/FTPS/SFTP/HTTP)
• Post/Get information through HTTP
• Encryption/Decryption (PGP)
• Execute SQL queries/stored procedures
• Start/stop processes and batch files
• Start/stop services
• Send/receive emails
• Execute commands on Linux through SSH
• Restart/shutdown/hibernate remote computers

Some sample screenshots: (Click to enlarge)

From my research and findings after trying out VisualCron, the tool can be generally used:

• As an alternative for Windows Scheduler / SQL Agent
• To initiate tasks when there are changes to files
• As an alternative to running lots of batch jobs
• As a remote management tool
• As a tool to run nightly build processes

I noted that one of the satisfied VisualCron customers quoted:

Two hundred dollars spent, countless thousands of soft dollars saved!

I believe this tool – VisualCron will be able to help many servers and pc management personnel out there. Hope it helps!