Switching from WordPress Cron to Server-based Cron

Switch to a server-based cron to help your WordPress site run smoother and send emails right on time.

Why switch to a server-based cron

The default WordPress cron system (wp_cron) only runs when someone visits your site. This can cause delays or missed tasks on sites with low traffic.

A server-based cron runs automatically on a fixed schedule, ensuring your CRM tasks (like sending emails or processing automation) always run when they should — even if no one visits your site.

Important: learn more about the limitations of wp_cron.

How to switch from WordPress cron to server-based cron

Follow these steps to set up a server-based cron job safely:

1. Disable the default WordPress Cron

To prevent conflicts, you’ll first need to disable the built-in WordPress cron.

1. Open your wp-config.php file (found in your site’s root WordPress directory).
2. Add the following line above the line that says:
   /* That’s all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */ define('DISABLE_WP_CRON', true);
3. Save the file.
4. Visit your site to confirm it still loads correctly.

2. Create a Cron Job in Your Hosting Control Panel

Next, set up a server cron rule to trigger WordPress’s cron file automatically.

Please note: this process varies slightly depending on your hosting provider. Below is an example using cPanel, which most hosts use. The steps are similar for others.

1. Log in to your hosting account and open cPanel.
2. In the search bar, type “cron” and click on Cron Jobs.
3. Add a new cron job using a command similar to this: wget -q -O – http://yourdomain.com/wp-cron.php?doing_wp_cron >/dev/null 2>&1
   (Replace yourdomain.com with your actual site address.)

Recommended frequency:

• Every minute for best performance (ideal for email campaigns and CRM automation).
• Every 5 minutes if you’re on a restrictive hosting plan.

3. Update Cron Settings in Jetpack CRM

1. Go to Jetpack CRM → CRM Settings → Mail Campaigns.
2. Find the “Cron Mode” setting.
3. Switch to “Use Server Cron” and click Save.

That’s it: your Jetpack CRM is now using a server-based cron for more reliable automation.