What is the function of 'cron' in Linux?

The function of 'cron' in Linux is to schedule tasks to run at specified times or intervals. It is a time-based job scheduler that allows users to execute scripts or commands automatically at regular intervals, such as daily, weekly, or monthly, or at specific times. This capability is essential for automating routine tasks, such as backups, updates, or system maintenance, without requiring manual intervention. Users can define these scheduled tasks using 'cron jobs', which are specified in a crontab file. This facilitates the efficient management of repetitive tasks, helping to ensure that they are performed consistently and timely without needing a user to initiate them each time.