entr
A utility for running arbitrary commands when files change using kqueue or inotify without polling.
What is entr?
entr is a command-line utility that monitors files for changes and automatically runs arbitrary commands when modifications are detected. It uses system-level APIs like kqueue or inotify to avoid polling, making it efficient for development tasks like auto-reloading servers, rebuilding projects, or running tests. The tool is designed to provide rapid feedback directly in the terminal without manual intervention.
Developers and system administrators working in Unix-like environments (BSD, Linux, Mac OS) who need automated file change responses for tasks like testing, building, or server reloading. It's particularly useful for command-line-centric workflows where immediate feedback is valuable.
entr offers a lightweight, native alternative to polling-based file watchers by leveraging OS-specific monitoring APIs for better performance and lower resource usage. Its simplicity, cross-platform support (with workarounds for Docker/WSL), and ability to run any shell command make it a versatile tool for automation without complex configuration.
Overview
Run arbitrary commands when files change
Use Cases
Best For
- Auto-reloading Node.js or other web servers during development
Related Projects
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