alive is a small utility for periodically contacting configured network hosts. It is intended for simple recurring connectivity checks rather than interactive measurement or detailed network analysis.
The program reads its targets and operating parameters from configuration files. Instead of requiring arguments for every run, it uses these settings to determine which hosts to contact and when to perform checks.
alive is designed to run for extended periods with minimal intervention. Configuration changes can take effect automatically, while randomised intervals prevent every contact attempt from occurring at a rigidly fixed time.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Periodically contact configured network destinations.
- Manage multiple targets through separate configuration files.
- Process monitored hosts in round-robin order.
- Randomise the interval between successive contacts.
- Automatically recognise changes to configuration files.
- Apply modified settings without restarting the application.
- Configure periodic activity for individual destinations.
- Run unattended for simple long-term connectivity tasks.
Website: www.gnu.org/software/alive
Support:
Developer: Thien-Thi Nguyen
License: GNU General Public License v3.0

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