How to Run Your Python Script on CentOS as a Background Task

Learn how to effectively run your Python scripts on a CentOS server as background tasks that continue to execute even after you log out.
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Running Your Python Script on CentOS as a Background Task

If you’ve ever run a Python script on a CentOS server only to discover that it stops running after you log out, you’re not alone. This common issue arises when background processes are tied to your user session, which ceases once you disconnect. Fortunately, there’s an effective solution that allows your scripts to run independently of your session. In this guide, we'll walk through how to convert your Python script into a service that runs as a background task.

The Problem

You’re trying to execute a Python script on your CentOS 7 server that connects to your Telegram account using Telethon. Initially, everything seems to work fine when you’re logged in via SSH. However, once you log out, the script stops running, even if you try using commands like nohup or &. This happens because background processes are linked to your SSH session, causing them to terminate once the connection ends.

The Solution

To ensure your Python script continues to run in the background, you need to create a systemd service. Here’s a breakdown of how to do this step-by-step.

Step 1: Create a Service Configuration File

Open a terminal on your CentOS server.

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Add the following configuration into your service file:

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Step 2: Enable the Service to Start at Boot

To make your Python script start automatically when the system reboots, use the following command:

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Step 3: Start the Service Manually

In case you want to run your script immediately without waiting for a reboot, you can start the service manually:

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Step 4: Check the Service Status

To ensure that the service is running as expected, use the following command:

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This command will provide you with information about whether your service is active or if it has encountered any errors.

Conclusion

By creating a systemd service, you can run your Python script as a background task on your CentOS server, ensuring it operates independently of your SSH session. This method not only allows for greater reliability but also keeps your script running consistently, even in your absence.

If you encounter any issues, be sure to check the logs to troubleshoot potential errors. With these steps, your Python scripts can now work seamlessly in the background, keeping your applications running smoothly.