Windows Advisor
Timing is Everything
How to keep your Windows XP clock on time, even through the Internet Connection Firewall.
Question: I've enabled Internet Connection Firewall on my Windows XP. How
can I synchronize my computer clock with an Internet time server?
Tech Help—Just An
E-Mail Away |
|
Got a Windows, Exchange or virtualization question
or need troubleshooting help? Or maybe you want a better
explanation than provided in the manuals? Describe
your dilemma in an e-mail to the MCPmag.com editors
at [email protected];
the best questions get answered in this column and garner
the questioner with a nifty Redmond T-shirt.
When you send your questions, please include your
full first and last name, location, certifications (if
any) with your message. (If you prefer to remain anonymous,
specify this in your message, but submit the requested
information for verification purposes.)
|
|
|
Answer: Whether you are using a dial-up connection or are connected to the Internet with a DSL or cable modem, you can configure ICS in Windows XP to synchronize your computer with an Internet time server by following these steps:
- Click Start, Connect to, Show all connections.
- Right-click the network connection and select Properties.
- Click Settings on the Advanced tab.
- Click Add and type Internet Time Service in the description box.
- Type 127.0.0.1 for IP address and type 123 for both external and internal port numbers. Make sure the TCP radio button is selected.
- Click OK three times to close all dialog boxes.
- If you are already connected to the Internet you'll need to disconnect and reconnect for the settings to take place.
- Now you can double-click the clock on the taskbar, click on the Internet Time tab, and select Update Now to synchronize your clock.
Note that if you aren't using the firewall, then you can simply use step #8 to synchronize your computer clock.
About the Author
Zubair Alexander, MCSE, MCT, MCSA and Microsoft MVP is the founder of SeattlePro Enterprises, an IT training and consulting business. His experience covers a wide range of spectrum: trainer, consultant, systems administrator, security architect, network engineer, author, technical editor, college instructor and public speaker. Zubair holds more than 25 technical certifications and Bachelor of Science degrees in Aeronautics & Astronautics Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Information Systems. His Web site, www.techgalaxy.net, is dedicated to technical resources for IT professionals. Zubair may be reached at [email protected].