Specifying a Time Server for Windows to Use

Most Windows computers are hooked up to the Internet in some manner these days. If your computer is among this majority, you can instruct Windows to check periodically with online time servers to adjust the system clock on your computer. Here's how you specify which time server to use with Windows 7 and 8:

1. Click once on the date and time in the Notifications area at the right side of the Taskbar. Windows displays a calendar and clock.
2. Click the Change Date and Time Settings link. Windows displays the Date and Time dialog box.
3. Make sure the Internet Time tab is displayed.
4. Click Change Settings. Windows displays the Internet Time Settings dialog box. (See Figure 1.)



Figure 1. The Internet Time Settings dialog box.

5. Make sure the Synchronize with an Internet Time Server check box is selected.
6. Use the Server drop-down list to choose which server you want Windows to use. (There are five servers available.)
7. Click OK to dismiss the Internet Time Settings dialog box.
8. Click OK to close the Date and Time Settings dialog box.

To change time Server in Windows 10 the method is slightly different:

1. Click on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of the screen. Windows displays the Start screen.
2. Type Control Panel and press Enter. Windows opens the Control Panel.
3. 3. Click Clock and Region. Windows displays the Clock and Region section of the Control Panel.
4. Under Date and Time click on Set the Time and Date link. Windows displays the Date and Time dialog box.
5. Click on the Internet Time tab. Windows shows the Internet Time section of the Date and Time dialog box.
6. Click Change Settings. Windows displays the Internet Time Settings dialog box. (See Figure 2.)



Figure 2. The Windows 10 Internet Time Settings dialog box.

7. Make sure the Synchronize with an Internet Time Server check box is selected.
8. Use the Server drop-down list to choose which server you want Windows to use.
9. Click OK to dismiss the Internet Time Settings dialog box.
10. Click OK to close the Date and Time Settings dialog box.
11. Click to close Control Panel.

There is no inherent benefit in using one time server over another. You may, however, have a personal preference for one over another or you may want to choose one that is located geographically closer to your computer.

 This tip (10797) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.