How Do Computers Keep Accurate Time Without the Internet?
Discover how computers maintain accurate time using an internal clock, even when offline.
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Computers keep track of time without the internet by using an internal hardware component called the Real-Time Clock (RTC). The RTC is powered by a small battery even when the computer is turned off, ensuring that the time remains accurate. When a computer turns on, it reads the date and time from the RTC, allowing it to operate correctly without needing an internet connection.
FAQs & Answers
- What is a Real-Time Clock (RTC)? A Real-Time Clock (RTC) is a hardware component that keeps track of the current time and date, even when the computer is off, using a small battery.
- Can computers still keep accurate time without being connected to the internet? Yes, computers can keep accurate time using their internal Real-Time Clock, which operates independently of internet connectivity.
- How long does the RTC battery last? The RTC battery can last several years, depending on the type of battery used and how frequently the device is powered down.
- What happens to the time when a computer is turned off? When a computer is turned off, the RTC continues to keep time powered by its battery, ensuring that the time remains accurate until the computer is turned back on.