Setting Up a Time Server (NTP) on Windows Server

Time synchronization is critical for all devices in a network. It ensures proper authentication, accurate logging, and smooth operations across Active Directory domains, security tools, and scheduled tasks.

The Network Time Protocol (NTP) is the standard method for synchronizing system clocks.

✅ Why Set Up an NTP Server?

• Keeps domain-joined devices in sync

• Prevents Kerberos authentication failures

• Ensures accurate logs and audit trails

• Required for compliance in secure environments

???? Requirements

• A Windows Server machine (2016/2019/2022 recommended)

• Domain Controller or standalone server

• Internet access (if syncing with external sources)

⚙️ Step-by-Step: Configure Windows Server as an NTP Time Server

???? 1. Configure Registry Settings

Open Regedit and navigate to:

Set Enabled to 1.

Then go to:

Set AnnounceFlags to 5.

???? 2. Set External Time Sources (Optional)

In this path:

Set NtpServer value to:

And change Type to NTP.

???? 3. Restart Time Service

Or:

???? 4. Force Sync and Verify

???? Best Practices

• Use reliable and geographically close NTP servers

• Open port UDP 123 on firewalls

• On domain controllers, ensure they sync from external NTP

• Clients sync from the domain hierarchy by default

???? Final Notes

Setting up a reliable time source helps maintain trust in your network infrastructure. It prevents errors in authentication, log integrity, and scheduled tasks — a small setup that pays big security and compliance dividends.

Need help configuring time synchronization across your hybrid infrastructure? Our support team can help.