How to Change Date and Time in Ubuntu Linux

Changing the date and time in Ubuntu Linux involves using either the visual Settings app or the command line.

The Settings app provides an easy-to-use graphical interface, while the command line lets you type direct commands for quick adjustments.

Manually setting your computer’s clock can be useful if you need to test apps that rely on specific times or fix times that are slightly off due to network issues.

For example, on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, you can set the exact date and time using the `timedatectl` command in the terminal.

Ubuntu usually keeps your time updated automatically, but knowing how to change it yourself gives you full control.

How to manually change system date and time in Ubuntu Linux

To manually change the date and time in Ubuntu Linux, you will open the System Settings. The System Settings allow you to adjust the current date and time directly, rather than letting your computer set the time automatically. This process ensures your Ubuntu system displays the correct time.

Below is how to do that.

Ubuntu Linux uses the System Settings panel as a central location for most settings. You can perform system configurations, create new users, and update software directly from this System Settings panel.

Alternatively, click on the System menu at the top-right corner of the top bar on your desktop.

On the System menu, select Settings, as highlighted below.

Click the ‘Date & Time’ tile in the Settings app to open its panel.

In the ‘System Settings -> Date & Time’ panel, toggle the ‘Automatic Date & Time’ switch to the ‘Off’ position.

You can’t manually set the date and time when Automatic Date & Time is on. Turn off Automatic Date & Time to manually set your system’s date and time.

Once the Automatic Date & Time setting is turned Off, click the Date & Time calendar to set the date and time manually, ensuring your system clock is accurate.

You should be able to set the Time, Month, Day, and Year on the pop-up window. Whatever settings you choose here will be applied system-wide.

That should do it! You can now close the Settings app.

Conclusion:

• Changing the date and time in Ubuntu Linux is feasible through the System Settings panel.
• Toggling the Automatic Date & Time switch to the off position allows users to set the date and time manually.
• By selecting the Date & Time tile, users can easily set the date and time according to their preferences.