What is a Unix Timestamp?
A Unix timestamp (also known as Epoch time or POSIX time) is a system for tracking time as the number of seconds that have elapsed since 00:00:00 UTC on January 1, 1970 (the Unix epoch). This system is used extensively in programming and computing because it provides a simple, unambiguous way to represent dates and times across different systems and timezones.
Unix timestamps are always represented in UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) and are independent of timezones, making them ideal for storing dates and times in databases, APIs, and log files. When displayed to users, timestamps are typically converted to the local timezone for better readability.
Timestamp Converter
What is Unix Time?
Unix timestamp is the number of seconds since January 1, 1970, 00:00:00 UTC (the Unix epoch).
Common Uses
- • Database timestamps
- • API responses
- • Log files
- • Session management
Time Zones
Unix timestamps are always in UTC. Converting to local time depends on your timezone settings.
Common Uses for Unix Timestamps
- Database Storage: Store dates and times in databases as integers, making queries and comparisons faster and simpler
- API Responses: Exchange date/time information between systems in a standardized, timezone-independent format
- Log Files: Timestamp events in server logs and application logs for debugging and analysis
- Caching: Set expiration times for cached data using Unix timestamps for precise time control
- Session Management: Track session creation and expiration times in web applications
- Scheduling: Schedule tasks and cron jobs using Unix timestamps for precise execution times
- File Systems: Store file creation, modification, and access times as Unix timestamps
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