All user's system time is two minutes fast

46557078 20 Reputation points
2023-05-22T17:56:32.9+00:00

I work for a company with about 100 end users. Starting last week, everyone's system time has been two minutes fast, and I can't figure out why. Any ideas, please? I'm brand new to IT and I appreciate any help.

Windows Server
Windows Server
A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.
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  1. Dave Patrick 426.1K Reputation points MVP
    2023-05-23T12:36:34.8+00:00

    Some general info

    • All domain members should use NT5DS domain time.
    • Desktops and member servers sync with any domain controller.
    • Domain controllers sync with PDC emulator (one per domain)
    • PDC emulator in child domain can sync with any domain controller in parent domain.
    • PDC emulator in parent domain syncs with either a hardware clock or possibly an external source.

    https://blogs.technet.microsoft.com/nepapfe/2013/03/01/its-simple-time-configuration-in-active-directory/

    --please don't forget to upvote and Accept as answer if the reply is helpful--

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  1. Limitless Technology 43,971 Reputation points
    2023-05-23T11:40:12.9+00:00

    Hi,

    I'd be happy to help you out with your question. Sorry for the inconvenience caused.

    Let's try some self troubleshooting steps to help you resolve this problem:

    1. Network Time Protocol (NTP) Settings: First, check the NTP settings on the computers or servers responsible for time synchronization in your network. Ensure that the NTP servers are properly configured and synchronized with accurate time sources. Additionally, verify that the client devices are configured to sync time with the correct NTP server.
    2. Time Zone Settings: Double-check the time zone settings on all the affected devices. Incorrect time zone settings can lead to consistent time discrepancies. Make sure that the time zone configuration matches the correct geographic location.
    3. Group Policy or Domain Settings: If your company uses a Windows Active Directory environment, it's important to review any Group Policies or domain-level settings that may impact time synchronization. Confirm that these policies are correctly configured and not causing the time discrepancy issue.
    4. BIOS/UEFI Clock: It's worth investigating the BIOS/UEFI settings on the affected computers. Ensure that the system clocks are correctly set in the hardware settings. A discrepancy in the BIOS/UEFI clock can result in time inconsistencies within the operating system.
    5. Third-Party Software or Services: Take into consideration any third-party software or services installed on the affected computers. Some applications, such as time synchronization utilities or those interacting with the system clock, might be altering the system time unintentionally. Check if any such software is causing the discrepancy.
    6. Malware or Virus: Although less common, certain malware or viruses can manipulate system time. To rule out any malicious activity, I recommend running a comprehensive malware scan on the affected computers using reputable antivirus software.
    7. Contact IT Support: If you're new to IT and uncertain about the cause or how to resolve the issue, I suggest reaching out to your company's IT support team. They have experience handling similar issues and can provide further guidance and assistance.

    Remember to keep a record of any changes you make and the troubleshooting steps you've taken.

    If you have any other questions or need assistance with anything, please don't hesitate to let me know. I'm here to help.

    If the reply was helpful, please don’t forget to upvote or accept as answer, thank you.

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  2. 46557078 20 Reputation points
    2023-05-23T14:54:36.7366667+00:00

    Thank you for your help! The problem's solved.