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The Importance of Network Time Synchronisation

Computers are widely used in businesses and organisations. It is important for computers within an organisation to have a synchronized network time. Network time can be synchronized by using an accurate network time server.

There is an internal clock in every PC and it sustains the system’s internal time. However, these clocks are not very accurate. They use a low-cost crystal oscillator. These tend to oscillate at slightly different rates. Crystals also change frequency with temperature fluctuations. Because of this, computers in an organisation tend to tell slightly different times. In order for the computers to tell a more accurate time they need to be synchronised in some way.

If a computer network is not synchronized correctly it can lead to a number of issues. In particular, during transactions, if a number of different computers are used then the transactions may have different time stamps. This could lead to a risk of fraud, especially when transactions are central to a business. There may also be problems if network users have access to shared network files.

Using an external time reference, Network time servers are able to get a precise time. Time servers use Network Time Protocol (NTP). There are several external time references. One of these, Global Positioning System (GPS), is a free service that provides extremely accurate time. The GPS transmitters need a clear view of the sky to be able to receive timing information.

Internet based NTP time servers resources are also available and can be used to synchronise network time. Using internet time servers can create a few problems though. The main issue is that the time server is placed outside the firewall. Because of this, a port must always be open so that the time server can be retrieved. This can cause security problems.

This security issue can be solved by using a local dedicated network time server. It is located inside the firewall and is therefore secure as there is no external access required. The local time server also has a greater accuracy because of steady network paths between clients and server. When it is installed, the organisation then owns it which means that there are no service issues. Local dedicated network time servers provide a secure and accurate network time synchronisation solution.

Author Biography
Claire Gamble is a technical author and works on the development of time server solutions that synchronize time on computers and computer networks. Click here to find out more about NTP Server and GPS time server solutions.