How to Manage WordPress Cron (WP-Cron) Events with WP-CLI

Last Updated on December 20, 2024 by Mike Kipruto

What is WP-Cron?

WP-Cron is how WordPress handles scheduling time-based tasks in WordPress. 

WP-Cron is used by a number of core WordPress features, including checking for updates and publishing scheduled posts.

Using the WordPress Command Line Interface (WP-CLI)

WP-CLI is the command-line interface for WordPress. Without using a web browser, you can update plugins, configure multisite installations, and much more.

In order to use the WP-CLI and you are on an operating system like Linux or Mac, you can use the built-in SSH terminal. In contrast, Windows users can use PuTTYto access the server.

We make use of the wp cron <command> in order to test, run, and delete WP-Cron events; manages WP-Cron schedules.

Examples of WP CRON Commands

1. wp cron test

This command is used to test the WP Cron spawning system as shown:

2. wp cron event <command>

This command is used to schedule, run, and delete WP-Cron events as shown:

For more details, on the same, please take a look at the official WP-Cli handbook on the same here.

3. wp cron schedule <command>

This command is used to get the WP-Cron schedules as shown: