Self-hosted cron job monitoring with zero dependencies — node server.js and done
Description and use
Self-hosted cron job monitoring with zero dependencies: a Node.js server pings, detects missed or late jobs, and sends email alerts or webhooks.
Problem
Cron jobs fail silently, leading to delayed damage detection.
Outcome
The self-hosted monitor provides real-time detection of missed or late cron jobs, eliminating silent failures and reducing damage time.
Workflow
- Install Node.js on the server.
- Download the Cron Heartbeat Monitor package.
- Run the monitor with
node server.js. - Configure cron jobs to ping the monitor’s heartbeat endpoint.
- Set grace periods for missed or late detection.
- Enable SMTP email alerts or webhooks for notifications.
- Use the REST API or web dashboard to view job status.
- Adjust settings as needed for new jobs.
- Monitor alerts and take corrective action promptly.
Evidence
Cron Heartbeat Monitor is a self-hosted monitoring server for cron jobs and scheduled tasks.
Zero dependencies — Node.js only, no database, no Python
- Record date: 2026-09-15T04:00:37.148Z