How to fix time synchronization error in Windows 10

Correctly setting the date and time of the operating system is something we rarely stop to check, but it can be key to the efficient operation of the computer. time synchronization error in Windows 10 It can be a problem that can affect both access to websites and the execution of certain programs. What can be done to solve it?

This error can manifest itself in many ways, from losing the clock after shutting down the computer to the time difference between different operating systems. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this issue. the common causes and the most efficient solutions to get rid of any system clock issues in Windows 10.

What does the time error in Windows mean?

An incorrect time on your PC may seem like a minor issue, but it actually has some pretty significant consequences. For example, Many websites use the HTTPS protocol, which verifies the system time to validate certificates. If the time is incorrect, these websites may not load properly.

It can also affect programs such as antivirus, Windows updates, or any software that synchronizes data in real time.

Also, if you frequently use your PC for critical tasks that require time precision or work with different operating systems, The time difference can cause compatibility conflicts and synchronization. That's why it's crucial to address this issue carefully.

Common causes of time synchronization problems

These are the most common reasons that lead to the time sync error in Windows 10:

Motherboard battery dead

One of the most typical reasons why your computer clock loses time is that the BIOS battery (usually CR2032) is depleted. This battery keeps the BIOS settings and the clock running while the computer is off. If it starts to fail, you'll notice delays in the time or even a reset every time you turn off the computer. If this is the case, you should consider Change the time in Windows 10.

Mismatched settings in BIOS or UEFI

Windows relies directly on the date and time settings found in the BIOS/UEFI. Snap time is off or incorrectly configured, a time synchronization error may occur in Windows 10. Entering the BIOS and adjusting these values ​​correctly can solve the problem at its root.

Incorrect synchronization mode with NTP servers

Windows uses the NTP protocol to synchronize time through time servers. However, there are several connection modes, including symmetric active mode and client modeSome servers may not respond well if the connection type is not specified correctly, which may prevent the time from updating automatically.

Problems with the firewall or router

Sometimes, the Your computer or router's firewall blocks NTP connections, preventing Windows from communicating with time servers. This is a common cause of failure, especially if network rules have recently been changed or new security software has been installed. To troubleshoot connection issues, you can refer to how to resynchronize the time in Windows 10.

Dual Boot with Linux

If you use more than one operating system on the same PC (for example, Windows and Linux), you may see time errors when changing from one to the otherThis happens because Linux and Windows handle motherboard time differently: Linux uses UTC, while Windows uses local time.

Virtual Machines

The time sync error in Windows 10 may also appear when using virtual machines. These present the same problems as Dual Boot environments, since they also They use UTC time by defaultThe solution in this case is to install the necessary tools to synchronize the time with the host system, such as Guest Additions in VirtualBox.

Misconfigured region

Un incorrectly configured time zone or region This can cause the time zone to not be adjusted correctly even if the watch is set to the correct time, causing unexpected errors. This is especially important if you travel frequently or use a laptop in different countries. Hence the importance of Change the time zone in Windows 10.

Synchronization disabled

Another common cause is that automatic synchronization is disabledWith this option disabled, Windows won't adjust the time even when you're connected to the Internet, which can cause significant time lags. Therefore, it's important to ensure the synchronization option is enabled.

Recent Windows Updates

Some Updates may cause unwanted changes in the way the system manages time. Although this isn't common, it's a good idea to check if the problem started right after installing a new version of the operating system.

Step-by-step solutions to correct the time in Windows 10

Now that we've reviewed the possible origin of the problem, let's move on to the solutions available to deal with the time synchronization error in Windows 10:

Activate automatic synchronization from settings

The first step should always be to verify that the option to set the time automatically is enabled. To do this:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Time and language and then to Date and time.
3. Make sure the options are enabled “Set the time automatically” y “Set time zone automatically”.

You can also press the button “Sync now” to force an immediate realignment with the Microsoft server.

Manually adjust the time

If automatic sync still doesn't work, you can disable it and manually change the time from the option "Change" in the same Settings menu. Although this is a temporary solution, it can be helpful if you need an urgent fix.

Check and change the time server

Windows uses by default time.windows.com as the NTP server. But you can change it to a more reliable one from the Control Panel:

1. Press Win + R and write timedate.cpl.
2. On the “Internet Time” tab, click “Change Settings.”
3. Activate the “Synchronize with an Internet time server” option and choose another server such as:
   • time.google.com
   • time.cloudflare.com
   • hora.roa.es (official service of Spain)

This may resolve the issue if the original server is down.

Restart or register the time service

Access Windows services to restart the time service:

1. Press Win + R, writes services.msc and search for “Windows Time”.
2. Right-click and select “Restart.” If it’s stopped, select “Start.”

You can also run commands in the System symbol as administrator to register the service again:

regsvr32 w32time.dll

And also:

net stop w32time
w32tm /unregister
w32tm /register
net start w32time
w32tm /resync

Configure client mode in w32tm

To avoid incompatibilities with NTP servers, it is recommended activate client mode instead of the active symmetrical:

w32tm /config /manualpeerlist:"time.windows.com,0x8" /syncfromflags:MANUAL
net stop w32time && net start w32time
w32tm /resync

Use external software: Atomic Clock Sync

If you prefer a more direct solution, you can install Atomic Clock Synca free app that Automatically synchronizes your PC clock with official atomic clocksThis provides greater reliability, especially if Windows sync keeps failing.

Revert to a previous version or restore system

If the error started after an update, you can uninstall that update from Windows Update or use a restoration point previous from Control Panel > System > Recovery.

Replace the BIOS battery

If the clock resets every time you turn off your computer, the motherboard battery may be dead. Replace the CR2032 battery with a new one. Access is easy on desktop PCs, but it may require partial or complete disassembly on laptops.

Correct time in BIOS/UEFI

At system startup, enter the BIOS (usually by pressing Del, F2 or similar) and manually set the time and date. Save changes so Windows applies them at startup.