System and processes

The timeout command

Runs a command and stops it if it takes longer than allowed. Ideal for scripts and tests.

Syntax

timeout DURACIÓN COMANDO

Most useful options

-s SEÑALThe signal it uses to stop it (TERM by default)
s, m, h, dTime suffixes (timeout 30s, timeout 2m)

Copy-ready examples

$ timeout 2 sleep 1Finishes within the time
$ timeout 10 ping -c 2 google.comLimits a network test

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

Typical mistakes

  • If it cuts the command, it returns code 124: that warns you that time ran out.
  • With no suffix, the duration is in seconds.

Related commands

sleepwatchkillping

FAQ

Can I give it more time without changing the command?

Yes, by increasing the duration: timeout 30 instead of timeout 5.

Learn to actually use it

The basic Linux course takes you from zero to console fluency with 24 self-grading lessons.

Start the free course