---

GNU Parallel Can Do Anything, but Is Too Complicated to Be Useful

GNU Parallel is a utility that lets you run command jobs in parallel; on local and on remote hosts over the network. It’s incredibly powerful when you need something more flexible than xargs, and it’s especially useful with small computer clusters.

While GNU Parallel can help you get jobs done quicker, but you need to do a cost-benefit analysis before you use it. Its command syntax is unique and non-intuitive for command-line users, and getting it up and running can be a real head-scratcher.

Get the Free Newsletter!

Subscribe to Developer Insider for top news, trends, & analysis