The timer controls future activation while the service records execution results.

A systemd timer schedules a service, not its success

A systemd timer separates the scheduling rule from the service that performs the work. The timer decides when to request activation; the service supplies the command, execution identity, environment, timeout, and result. This separation makes a maintenance job inspectable using normal unit tools. It does not turn a scheduled attempt into proof that a backup, cleanup, or report completed correctly. ...

June 21, 2027 · 5 min · XB Field Notes