watchexec is a command-line utility that monitors files and directories and executes commands in response to filesystem changes. It is designed for development workflows where tests, linters, compilers or other commands need to run automatically after files are modified.
The program monitors the specified paths and their subdirectories, using filesystem notifications to detect relevant events. It can filter changes according to filenames, extensions and glob patterns, allowing developers to react only to changes that matter for a particular project.
watchexec also manages the execution of the monitored command. Multiple filesystem events can be grouped together to avoid unnecessary repeated executions, while long-running processes can be restarted when relevant files change. This makes it useful for development servers, automated builds and continuous testing without requiring a project-specific build system.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Monitor directories and subdirectories for filesystem changes.
- Execute commands automatically when matching changes occur.
- Filter filesystem events using file extensions and glob patterns.
- Respect .gitignore and .ignore rules.
- Group related filesystem events to avoid unnecessary executions.
- Customisable event debounce intervals.
- Restart long-running commands when files change.
- Execute monitored commands within process groups.
- Pass changed file paths through environment variables or standard input.
- Optionally clear the terminal between executions.
- Send desktop notifications when monitored commands start or finish.
- Configure which filesystem events trigger command execution.
- Supports monitoring multiple paths.
- Cross-platform support – runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Website: github.com/watchexec/watchexec
Support:
Developer: Félix Saparelli and contributors
License: Apache License 2.0
watchexec is written in Rust. Learn Rust with our recommended free books and free tutorials
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