System.Timers.Timer vs. System.Threading.Timer: Which Timer Should I Choose for My Windows Service?

Windows Service Timer Selection Guide

When building a Windows service that needs to perform tasks periodically, System.Timers.Timer and System.Threading.Timer are two viable timer choices. Both can get the job done effectively, but it's critical to understand their differences and potential impacts.

System.Timers.Timer vs. System.Threading.Timer

Both

System.Timers.Timer and System.Threading.Timer use a separate thread to execute callback functions at specified intervals. However, their underlying mechanisms and threading models are different.

System.Timers.Timer

• Compatible with .NET Framework and .NET Core
• Use a dedicated timer thread to handle callbacks
• Provides a simplified and straightforward API

System.Threading.Timer

• Available only in .NET Framework (not available in .NET Core)
• Use the thread pool to execute callbacks
• Provides finer control and customization options (e.g. cancellation, cross-thread synchronization)

Recommended plan

For Windows services that need to perform tasks periodically, these two timers can effectively meet the needs. Which one you choose depends mainly on the platform (.NET Framework or .NET Core) and the specific needs of your service. If cross-thread synchronization or fine control is required, System.Threading.Timer may be a better choice. For simple applications that don't require these advanced features, System.Timers.Timer can provide an adequate solution.

Usage Example

Here is an example of how to use System.Timers.Timer in a Windows service:

using System.Timers;

public class MyWindowsService
{
    private Timer _timer;

    public MyWindowsService()
    {
        _timer = new Timer(10000); // 每 10 秒执行一次
        _timer.Elapsed += Timer_Elapsed;
        _timer.Start();
    }

    private void Timer_Elapsed(object sender, ElapsedEventArgs e)
    {
        // 定期执行的代码
    }
}

Please note that it is critical to avoid using System.Web.UI.Timer or System.Windows.Forms.Timer in Windows services as they introduce unnecessary dependencies and may cause service failure.

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