Synchronise Your Windows Clock With An Alternative Time Server To Increase Accuracy

The clock on many Windows PCs in homes and small businesses can be off by a few minutes; by default it only updates intermittently on the time.windows.com server. To digitally record TV shows, not miss meeting times, or help with other situations that involve precise timing, you should consider pointing your clock an alternate time server.Technology blog One Tip a Day recommends the Network Time Protocol server and explains how connect to it:

  • Right-click your clock and choose Adjust date/time
  • Click on the Internet Time tab and then the Change Settings button
  • Replace the default time server with au.pool.ntp.org
  • Click Update Now

Do this and you should receive a confirmation that your time was successfully synchronised with the NTP server. Going forward Windows will now synchronise there once per week.

Make Windows Clock More Accurate [One Tip A Day]

Discuss

(6 Comments)
  • [–]

    pdf

    Monday, July 11, 2011 at 9:48 AM

    In Australia, you’ll want to use au.pool.ntp.org

  • [–]

    Marcus

    Monday, July 11, 2011 at 12:12 PM

    There are a few more advanced registry changes you could make that adjust how often the time gets syncronised. I have mine sync every 24 hours, rather than once a week.

  • [–]

    Nodeity

    Monday, July 11, 2011 at 12:20 PM

    Erm,.. how accurate do I need to keep my PC clock? I find that ‘time.windows.com’ is plenty accurate..! No need to be atomic clock tuned, is there?

    • [–]

      bugwan

      Monday, July 11, 2011 at 3:25 PM

      I guess if you’re an eBay sniper?

      • [–]

        Nodeity

        Monday, July 11, 2011 at 3:46 PM

        Hmm,.. Good point! Although I do own a copy of Bay Genie, which connects to their system, but sniping is a good reason. Thanks :)

  • [–]

    henry81

    Monday, July 11, 2011 at 8:58 PM

    Tbh its better to sync your computer with the work, university, or railway clocks. All of which seem to be different for me

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