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4.4.3. Time Protocols

Accurate time is critical for security (Kerberos requires <5 minute skew), logging (correlating events across systems), and troubleshooting (knowing when events occurred).

ProtocolPurposeAccuracy
NTPNetwork Time Protocol—synchronize clocksMilliseconds
PTPPrecision Time Protocol—high-accuracy environmentsMicroseconds/nanoseconds
NTSNetwork Time Security—authenticated NTPMilliseconds (secured)
Alvin Varughese
Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder15 professional certifications