Init Scripts
Init scripts are configuration files or scripts used to initialize, start, stop, and manage services or applications during system boot or shutdown on Unix-like operating systems. They define how a service should be launched, including dependencies, environment variables, and execution commands, typically following a standardized format like System V init or Upstart. These scripts ensure that services run in the correct order and with proper system context, playing a crucial role in system administration and automation.
Developers should learn init scripts when working on server-side applications, DevOps, or system administration tasks that require managing services on Linux or Unix-based systems. They are essential for automating service lifecycle management, ensuring applications start reliably after reboots, and integrating with system monitoring tools. Use cases include deploying web servers, databases, or custom daemons in production environments where manual service management is impractical.