How to Fix Time Synchronization Failed in Windows

Crucial to correct this problem quickly

Do you keep receiving a “Time synchronization failed” error while syncing the clock with a time server in Windows 11 or 10? There are several reasons why that happens.

It could be a problem with the Windows Time service, an overloaded time server, or an issue with your internet connection. This troubleshooting guide will teach you multiple ways to fix that on a Windows computer.

Restart the Windows Time Service

Windows Time is the background service that manages time synchronization in Windows operating systems. It’s susceptible to unexpected glitches, so restart it via the Services console and check if that helps.

Modify the Windows Time Service Properties

If the “Time synchronization failed” error in Windows persists, make the following adjustments to the Windows Time service properties. To do that:

Toggle Automatic Time-Keeping On/Off

Disabling and re-enabling the automatic time-keeping functionality in Windows fixes time-syncing errors a lot of the time. To do that:

Restart Your Computer

Core Windows functionalities malfunction if you don’t restart your computer often. If the “Time synchronization error” persists, open theStart menuand selectPower>Restart. If you see anUpdate and restartoption, choose that instead.

Troubleshoot Your Network Connection

If you see an extended error message reading something like “Time synchronization failed. Please check network connectivity and retry,” it’s likely something to do with your internet.

Here are several things you can try to fix the problem:

Pick a Different Time Server

By default, Windows 10 and 11 syncs with Microsoft’s time server at time.windows.com. Switching to the alternative time.nist.gov server could resolve the “Time synchronization failed” error. You must use theControl Panel‘s Date and Time applet for that.

Add a Different Time Server

It’s possible to add additional time servers to Windows via the Registry Editor.Popular NTP (Network Time Protocol) serversinclude:

Back up the Windows system registry, and then:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\DateTime\Servers

Sync Time Through the Command Prompt

Next, unregister and re-register the Windows Time service, then sync the time via the Command Prompt console. To do that:

Allow Time Syncing on Firewall

If you use a third-party network firewall on your computer, uninstall it and switch back to the Windows Firewall or allowUDPport 123 (needed to sync the time). Refer to the firewall’s online documentation or FAQ on how to do that.

If the problem occurs over the Windows Firewall, here’s how tocreate inbound and outbound rulesto ensure there are no network restrictions on the flow of NTP packets:

Disable VPNs and Proxies

VPNs (virtual private networks) and proxy serversare another reason Windows could struggle to sync the time with a time server. Try disabling them.

Run an SFC Scan

Run the System File Checker (SFC) in Windows to fix time synchronization errors that stem from corrupt system files. To do that:

Scan for Malware On Your Computer

Malicious software often hijacks critical Windows features. If the “Time synchronization failed” error persists or you have trouble performing any of the fixes above, you must run a thorough scan for malware.

It’s best to run an additional scan with a third-party malware removal utility. For example, the free version ofMalwarebytesis more than adequate atdetecting and removing stubborn malware.

Time Synchronization Is a Success

Fixing the “Time synchronization failed” error in Windows is crucial since an incorrect time often leads to complications withWindows Updateand other network-reliant functionalities and programs. It also adversely impacts system security.

Just work your way through the fixes above, and you should be able to get rid of it. If the problem persists, considerresetting your Windows 11or10 installation to factory defaults.

Dilum Senevirathne is a freelance tech writer and blogger with three years of experience writing for online technology publications. He specializes in topics related to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Google web apps. When he isn’t hammering away at his Magic Keyboard, you can catch him binge-watching productivity hacks on YouTube.Read Dilum’s Full Bio

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