Network Time System
The Network Time Protocol (NTP) is a networking protocol for clock synchronization between computer systems over packet-switched, variable-latency data networks. NTP is intended to synchronize all participating computers to within a few milliseconds of Coordinated Universal Time
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synchronization
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Network Time System: Suggest Software Alternatives
Discover the Network Time System, a protocol for clock synchronization between computer systems over packet-switched data networks, and explore top software alternatives on our platform.
What is Network Time System?
The Network Time Protocol (NTP) is a networking protocol for clock synchronization between computer systems over packet-switched, variable-latency data networks. NTP is designed to synchronize the clocks of computers to within a few milliseconds of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Here are some key points about NTP:
- It was originally designed by David L. Mills in 1985 and has been continuously updated and improved since then.
- It works by adjusting the system clock on each participating computer to match the time reported by trusted time servers.
- NTP uses a hierarchical, semi-layered system of time sources that provide accurate timing information. At the top are servers synchronized to national time scales using specialized hardware like atomic clocks or GPS receivers.
- The protocol includes measures for authentication, redundancy, and clock filtering to provide robust and accurate time corrections even over less reliable networks.
- Typical NTP deployments can maintain time to within 10-50 milliseconds on LANs and ~100 milliseconds or better over WANs relative to UTC.
- NTP is one of the oldest internet protocols still in use and remains crucial for applications like logging, timestamping, simulation, aviation systems, financial trading, and more.
Network Time System Features
Features
- Synchronize computer clocks with a central time source
- Support for multiple time sources and redundancy
- Customizable time synchronization intervals
- Compatibility with a wide range of operating systems and devices
- Logging and reporting capabilities
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Ensures accurate time keeping across a network
Improves reliability and consistency of time-sensitive applications
Reduces the need for manual time adjustments
Open-source and freely available
Cons
Requires network connectivity to function properly
May introduce additional network traffic and latency
Complexity in configuring and managing the system
Official Links
The Best Network Time System Alternatives
Top Network & Admin and Time & Clock and other similar apps like Network Time System
Time-Sync
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NetTime
NetTime is a free and open source network monitoring and analysis tool for Windows. It allows you to monitor key network performance metrics like latency, packet loss, and jitter for multiple hosts simultaneously.Some key features of NetTime include:Monitoring latency, packet loss, jitter to multiple hosts in real-time graphsConfigurable alerts when...
Network Time Protocol daemon
The Network Time Protocol daemon (ntpd) is an implementation of the Network Time Protocol (NTP) that is designed to synchronize the clocks of computers over a network. NTPd runs as a background process on servers and workstations and periodically adjusts the system clock to align it with time servers over...
Atomic Clock Time Synchronizer
Atomic Clock Time Synchronizer is a free, easy-to-use application designed to synchronize your computer's time and date settings with an atomic clock using the Network Time Protocol (NTP). It connects to NTP time servers run by government agencies and universities to obtain extremely precise Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) readings from...
Meinberg NTP
Meinberg NTP is a full-featured Network Time Protocol (NTP) solution for Windows and Linux operating systems. It allows organizations to synchronize all their computers and network devices to the same accurate time source over a network.Some key features of Meinberg NTP include:Supports major NTP server modes like client, server, and...
Dimension 4
Dimension 4 is a comprehensive requirements management platform designed to help organizations effectively define, manage, and track requirements across the entire product development lifecycle. Its key features and benefits include:Centralized requirements repository - Store all requirements and related artifacts in a centralized, web-based repository that serves as a single source...
Chrony
Chrony is a versatile implementation of the Network Time Protocol (NTP) used to synchronize computer clocks with NTP time servers, hardware reference clocks, and manual input. It is designed to deliver accurate, secure, and reliable time even in unstable network conditions.Some key features of Chrony include:It can synchronize the system...
Atomic Clock Sync
Atomic Clock Sync is a free desktop utility program for Windows that synchronizes your computer's system clock with Internet atomic clock time servers. This allows your computer's internal clock to maintain accuracy for precise timekeeping.Atomic Clock Sync runs as a lightweight application in the Windows system tray. It periodically checks...
TimeSync
TimeSync is an open-source web-based application for time tracking and billing. It is designed for organizations and companies that need to log hours worked by employees and contractors on different projects and tasks.Some key features of TimeSync include:User management - Add, edit, and deactivate usersProject management - Create projects and...
AboutTime
AboutTime is a comprehensive time tracking and productivity platform designed for agencies, consultancies, internal teams, and individuals who need to track time across projects accurately. Key features include:Time Tracking - Automatically track time or add time logs manually. Tag entries to projects, clients, tasks, etc.Project Management - Create projects and...
Advanced Time Synchronizer
Advanced Time Synchronizer is a free, open-source utility program designed to help keep your computer's internal clock accurately synchronized. It works by connecting to internet-based Network Time Protocol (NTP) servers, which provide atomic clock-synchronized time, and adjusting your system clock to match.Some key features of Advanced Time Synchronizer include:Automatically detects...
Desktop Atomic Clock
Desktop Atomic Clock is a free, open-source program for Windows that displays an accurate atomic clock time on your desktop. It synchronizes with Internet atomic clock servers to provide the correct time down to the millisecond.Some key features of Desktop Atomic Clock include:Automatically adjusts for Daylight Saving TimeDisplays time in...
