System and processes

The nice command

Runs a command with lower priority so it does not hog the CPU. It goes from -20 (highest) to 19 (lowest).

Syntax

nice [-n N] COMANDO

Most useful options

-n NSets the priority (10 by default)
19The lowest priority: for background jobs

Copy-ready examples

$ nice -n 10 sleep 100 & && ps -lLaunch at priority 10 and see it in ps -l
$ nice -n 19 sleep 60 &The lowest priority

You can try them in the browser terminal: it does not touch your computer.

Typical mistakes

  • The higher the number, the lower the priority (the other way round than it looks).
  • Only root can go below 0 (give more priority).
  • The effect shows in the NI column of ps -l and especially in background jobs.

Related commands

renicetoppssleep

FAQ

Can I change it later?

Yes, with renice on the PID.

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