Since 2005, macOS has had the master launcher launchd and its LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons. Then in 2014 Apple added Duet Activity Scheduler to run tasks when conditions are suitable.
launchctl
They now get signed, an Info.plist is embedded, they’re notarized by Apple, use the hardened runtime, maybe the App Sandbox, and request entitlements. So how do you check their version?
How to set your Mac to run scripts, apps and other software automatically, and at regular intervals, using launchd and a property list.
What’s the quickest way to tear down all user apps and services? Or to force a restart? The answer is in the command tool launchctl.
If the kernel is the heart of OS X, launchd is its brain. Use it to run periodic tasks such as synchronising folders automatically.
Macs are increasingly reliant on background services, and increasingly vulnerable to their problems. Mastering the services on your Mac will help make it faster and more stable.
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