What is the purpose of the @Scheduled annotation in Spring Boot?
Table of Contents
Introduction
The @Scheduled annotation in Spring Boot simplifies task scheduling by enabling methods to run automatically at specified intervals or times. This feature is often used for periodic task execution, such as sending emails, clearing logs, or updating data in the background. Configuring tasks with @Scheduled helps automate repetitive operations efficiently.
Key Features of the @Scheduled Annotation
1. Fixed Rate Execution
The fixedRate attribute ensures that a method runs at regular intervals, regardless of the previous execution's duration.
Example
- A new task starts every 5 seconds, irrespective of the completion time of the previous task.
2. Fixed Delay Execution
The fixedDelay attribute ensures a delay between the completion of one task and the start of the next.
Example
- The next task starts only after a 5-second delay from the previous task's completion.
3. Cron Expression Scheduling
The cron attribute allows scheduling based on cron expressions, offering flexibility in defining complex schedules.
Example
- Tasks are scheduled using cron syntax, enabling precise time-based execution.
Practical Examples
Example 1: Clearing Cache Periodically
- Clears application cache every 60 seconds to prevent stale data accumulation.
Example 2: Sending Daily Reports
- Sends automated reports every day at a specific time.
Conclusion
The @Scheduled annotation in Spring Boot is a powerful tool for automating periodic and time-based tasks. With options like fixedRate, fixedDelay, and cron, it offers flexibility to schedule tasks according to your application's requirements. Leveraging this feature can enhance efficiency and reduce manual intervention for repetitive operations.