How to Change Time Zone in Ubuntu Linux

This post describes the steps to change the time zone manually in Ubuntu Linux.

Ubuntu Linux default sets the time zone automatically based on your country and region. In addition, daylight saving time (DST) is also set automatically based on the country and region you are in.

Allowing Ubuntu Linux to manage your system’s time zone automatically will ensure that your PC date and time are accurate as long as you have an internet connection to time servers online.

That said, Ubuntu Linux allows users to manually manage their system’s time zone. But, of course, when you manually change the system’s time zone, you must do it every time you change your region.

Below is how to do that in Ubuntu Linux.

How to manually change the time zone in Ubuntu Linux

As mentioned, Ubuntu Linux allows users to manage their system time zone manually. You can do it independently if you don’t want Ubuntu Linux to set the time zone automatically.

Below is how to do that.

Ubuntu Linux has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. From system configurations to creating new users and updating, all can be done from the System Settings panel.

Ubuntu Linux Activities overview screen showing desktop menu

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.

Ubuntu Linux System menu accessed from top-right corner

Click on the Date & Time tile in the Settings app to open the panel.

Date and Time tile in Ubuntu Linux Settings application

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

Disabling automatic time zone toggle in Ubuntu Linux settings

You cannot set the time zone manually when Automatic Time Zone is set to On. Turn off Automatic Time Zone to manually set your system’s time zone.

Once the Automatic Time Zone setting is turned Off, click the Time Zone to set it manually.

Selecting new time zone from dropdown menu in Ubuntu

Click Time Zone, then select your location on the map or search for your current city.

Confirmed time zone change in Ubuntu Linux system settings

The time will be updated automatically when you select a different location. 

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

Conclusion:

  • Manually changing the time zone in Ubuntu Linux can be useful when you want more control over your system’s time settings.
  • You can manually set the time zone by toggling off the Automatic Time Zone switch in the Date & Time settings panel.
  • Selecting your location on the map or searching for your current city allows you to update the time zone easily.
  • Remember that when managing the time zone manually, you must make adjustments if you change your region or travel to a different location with a distinct time zone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change the time zone in Ubuntu Linux?

To change the time zone in Ubuntu Linux, open the Settings app, navigate to the Date & Time section, and toggle off the Automatic Time Zone option. Then, click on Time Zone to select your location on the map or search for your city.

Why is my time zone not updating automatically in Ubuntu?

If your time zone is not updating automatically, it may be due to the Automatic Time Zone setting being turned off. Ensure that your internet connection is active and that the Automatic Time Zone option is enabled in the Date & Time settings.

Can I manually set the time zone in Ubuntu Linux?

Yes, you can manually set the time zone in Ubuntu Linux by disabling the Automatic Time Zone feature in the Date & Time settings. Once turned off, you can select your desired time zone from the available options.

What happens if I travel to a different time zone with Ubuntu?

If you travel to a different time zone, you will need to manually change the time zone settings in Ubuntu if the Automatic Time Zone feature is disabled. Simply follow the steps to select your new location in the Date & Time settings.

How can I ensure my time zone is accurate in Ubuntu?

To ensure your time zone is accurate in Ubuntu, you can either enable the Automatic Time Zone setting, which adjusts based on your location, or manually set it by selecting your city or region in the Date & Time settings. Regularly check the settings if you frequently change locations.

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