How to set ntp server in windows

To configure an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server in Windows, you’ll need to use either the Command Prompt or edit the Windows Registry. Below are the simplest and most effective methods to sync your system time using a custom NTP server.

Using Command Prompt (Preferred for Most Users)

Run Command Prompt as Administrator. Then enter the following commands one by one:

w32tm /config /manualpeerlist:"time.windows.com,0x1" /syncfromflags:manual /reliable:yes /update
net stop w32time
net start w32time

If you want to use a custom NTP server like pool.ntp.org, just replace the value of manualpeerlist:

w32tm /config /manualpeerlist:"pool.ntp.org,0x1" /syncfromflags:manual /reliable:yes /update

After restarting the Windows Time service, you can force synchronization:

w32tm /resync

To check the current configuration and status:

w32tm /query /status
w32tm /query /configuration

Setting NTP via Registry (Advanced Users)

Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. Navigate to this key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\Parameters

Look for the value named NtpServer and change it to your desired server, such as:

pool.ntp.org,0x1

Also make sure the Type value is set to:

NTP

After editing, restart the time service:

net stop w32time
net start w32time

And resync if necessary:

w32tm /resync

Confirm NTP Sync Is Working

To verify everything is working correctly:

w32tm /query /status