How to Change Internet Time Server in Windows 11
Changing the Internet Time server in Windows 11 lets you set a specific server to keep your computer’s clock accurate. This syncs your PC with a chosen Network Time Protocol (NTP) server.
Windows 11 uses the Windows Time service, which relies on NTP to keep your system clock precise. This service normally connects to a default Microsoft time server using UDP port 123.
You might need to change this server if your PC’s clock often shows the wrong time or if the default server isn’t working well. Picking a different, reliable NTP server, like `time.windows.com`, can help improve how well your time stays synced.
Open Control Panel, go to Clock and Region, then Set the time and date, click the Internet Time tab, and select “Change settings.” You can then choose a server from the list or enter a new one and click “Update now.
Prerequisites
Change the Time Server via Control Panel
Changing the internet time server in Windows 11 is possible through the Control Panel. This method allows you to pick a server from a pre-made list or enter your own custom address to keep your computer’s clock accurate.
- Open the Control Panel.
- Navigate to Clock and Region.
- Click on Set the time and date.
- Click the Internet Time tab.
- Click the Change settings button (Requires Admin).
- Select a server from the list or type a new one, then click Update now.
Force Time Sync via Command Line
w32tm.exe tool.- Press the Windows key, type cmd, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
w32tm /resync
Advanced Configuration via Registry Editor
For more control over your time settings, you can change the internet time server in Windows 11 by using the Registry Editor. This advanced method lets you add custom server addresses directly, giving you more options than the Control Panel.
- Open Registry Editor (Requires Admin).
- Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\DateTime\Servers - Right-click in the right pane to create a new String Value, name it with a number, and enter your server address.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\w32time\Parameters - Modify the NtpServer value to your server name followed by
,0x9.
Summary
Keeping your Windows 11 computer’s clock accurate is important for system stability. You can change the internet time server using either the Control Panel or the Registry Editor.
Why is my Windows time not syncing?
Your Windows computer might not be syncing time correctly if the Windows Time service is off, your firewall blocks UDP port 123, or the chosen internet time server is down.
What are the best public NTP servers to use?
Good public NTP servers to use for syncing your Windows time include `pool.ntp.org`, `time.google.com`, and `time.windows.com`. The `pool.ntp.org` option is often the best choice.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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