Cron/Scheduled Tasks
In order for some phpVMS features to work, a cronjob is required to be setup. Some of the features that rely on cronjobs include:
- Job queue tasks (sending emails, notifications)
- Finances
- vaCentral features
If you can't run it once a minute, the lowest interval possible is fine, but should be in 5 minute increments, since there are tasks that run at 5,15, and 30 minute intervals.
Many hosts limit the usage of cron, either by limiting it directly or limiting php extensions needed by cron. So if you are planning to use a "Shared Hosting", better to focus on cron and email settings first (specially if they offer a money back quarantee), if cron is failing and you can not get it working properly consider finding a different service provider. Even some hosts limit WebCron services, be advised, without a working cron you will not get the best of phpVMS v7.
Configuration on a Server
If you have SSH and crontab access, this is the easiest way to configure the cron job. You need the path to the bin/cron file that's in the root of the phpVMS install. After that, add a cronjob that runs once a minute. Do not forget to include the username, for example, using crontab -e:
# THIS IS AN EXAMPLE
* * * * * php /path/to/phpvms/bin/cron >> /dev/null 2>&1
If your server has access to proc_open, you can also use the Laravel schedule runner:
# THIS IS AN EXAMPLE
* * * * * php /path/to/phpvms/artisan schedule:run >> /dev/null 2>&1
cPanel Configuration
phpVMS, in the admin panel, can suggest a cron path/command for you, under Admin -> Maintenance. However, before trying that, try setting it up according to your host's instructions.
Many hosts offer multiple PHP versions, make sure to use the path to the PHP 7.x version in the cronjob. Contact your host! Point them to this page. The example below uses PHP 7.4.
With cPanel, select "Once Per Minute" under "Common Settings", and you can use a similar command.
/usr/local/bin/ea-php74 -q /your/path/to/phpvms/bin/cron
Web Cron
If you're unable to use the cron on your server, or want an easier setup, you can use the web cron. To enable it, go to Maintenance in the admin panel. It's disabled by default:
Clicking the enable button gives a URL that can be used in the web-cron service to hit:
This URL can also be reset as the ID at the end if generated by random, for security purposes.