atrm

Remove job number 10

$ atrm [10]

$ atrm [15] [17] [22]

atrm job_number [job_number ...]

job_number
    The number(s) of the job(s) to be removed from the queue. These numbers are assigned when the jobs are submitted via the `at` command.

The `atrm` command removes jobs that have been submitted using the `at` command. It requires either superuser privileges or that the user owns the specified job. `atrm` examines the queue directory, usually `/var/spool/at`, for jobs matching the provided job numbers. Upon successful removal, the corresponding job files are deleted. Using `atrm` is crucial for managing scheduled tasks and preventing unnecessary system load. Users should exercise caution, especially with superuser privileges, to avoid accidentally removing critical or essential scheduled jobs. The command offers a way to clean up pending tasks, correct scheduling mistakes, or simply cancel jobs that are no longer needed. Proper management of scheduled tasks enhances system efficiency and control.

Requires superuser privileges to remove jobs belonging to other users. Ensure correct job numbers are specified to avoid unintended removals.

Job numbers are obtained from the output of the `at` command when the job is initially submitted. This number is vital for correctly identifying and removing a specific job.
For example: at 10:00 tomorrow -f my_script.sh
The output of this command will provide the job number.

Users can only remove their own jobs. The root user (or a user with sufficient privileges) can remove any job.

The `atrm` command has been a standard utility in Unix-like operating systems for many years, evolving alongside the `at` command. It provides a simple and effective mechanism for managing the execution of scheduled tasks. Initially, it offered a straightforward method to remove queued jobs. Over time, its functionality has remained largely unchanged, serving its essential purpose of job removal. The command's simplicity and reliability have contributed to its continued presence in modern Linux distributions.

at(1), batch(1)