Time Synchronization

This section explores the core protocols used to synchronize clocks across networked systems. Accurate timekeeping is essential for logging, event correlation, encryption, and distributed computing.

Protocol

Description

Use Case

NTP (Network Time Protocol)

Synchronizes system clocks to within milliseconds. Uses hierarchical stratum levels and tolerates network jitter.

Server sync, log timestamps, certificate validation

PTP (Precision Time Protocol)

Offers sub-microsecond synchronization using hardware timestamping. Ideal for real-time and deterministic systems.

Telecom, stock exchanges, automation networks

SNTP (Simple Network Time Protocol)

A simplified, lightweight version of NTP. Lower precision but easy to implement.

IoT devices, consumer electronics

RFC: RFC 5905

Main Features:

  • Synchronizes clocks across devices to millisecond accuracy

  • Hierarchical model (stratum levels 1–15)

  • Compensates for latency and jitter

  • Secure with NTS (NTP over TLS)

Use Cases:

  • Server synchronization in data centers

  • Accurate timestamps for logs and security

  • Time-based certificate verification

Alternative Protocols:

  • SNTP – Simpler, for embedded systems

  • PTP – For sub-microsecond precision in real-time networks

Let us learn more about NTP:

Jump to “NTP”

RFC: IEEE 1588

Main Features:

  • Achieves microsecond to sub-microsecond synchronization

  • Uses hardware timestamping for precision

  • Operates in master-slave hierarchy

  • Designed for LANs and deterministic environments

Use Cases:

  • Time-critical networks (e.g., industrial automation)

  • Telecom synchronization

  • Financial market timing

Alternative Protocols:

  • NTP – Suitable for broader, less precise applications

  • GPS – External time source for grandmasters

Let us learn more about PTP:

Jump to “PTP”

RFC: RFC 4330, RFC 5905

Main Features:

  • Lightweight implementation of NTP

  • Suitable for simple or embedded systems

  • Limited error handling and jitter correction

  • Easy to integrate into devices

Use Cases:

  • Time sync on IoT sensors and smart appliances

  • Consumer electronics (TVs, clocks)

  • Low-power or limited-resource systems

Alternative Protocols:

  • NTP – For full-featured, secure synchronization

  • PTP – For microsecond-level accuracy in deterministic networks

Let us learn more about SNTP:

Jump to “SNTP”