How Accurate Are Computer Clocks? Understanding Timing Precision
Discover how accurate computer clocks are and how they maintain precision using protocols like NTP.
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Computer clocks are generally accurate to within a few seconds per day. However, over time, they can drift. To ensure precision, computers often synchronize with internet time servers using protocols like NTP (Network Time Protocol). Regular synchronization helps maintain high accuracy, usually within milliseconds.
FAQs & Answers
- What affects the accuracy of a computer clock? Factors like temperature changes and hardware differences can affect a computer clock's accuracy, leading to drift over time.
- How often should a computer synchronize with time servers? It is recommended for computers to synchronize with time servers at regular intervals, often every hour for optimal accuracy.
- What is the purpose of the Network Time Protocol? The Network Time Protocol (NTP) is used to synchronize the clocks of computers over a network, ensuring accurate timekeeping across devices.