Accurate timekeeping is more important in networking than it might seem, and Network Time Protocol (NTP) is the service that keeps all devices on the same page. This episode covers how NTP works across a hierarchy of time sources, including stratum levels and public time servers. You'll learn how client devices use UDP port 123 to request time updates and how NTP servers ensure synchronization without introducing loops or drift.

We also explain the consequences of time drift, especially in environments that depend on accurate timestamps for logging, authentication, and security. You’ll discover how to configure NTP clients, validate synchronization, and troubleshoot issues where devices fall out of sync. In many exam scenarios, incorrect system time can be the hidden cause behind authentication or connectivity failures, making this topic more important than it seems on the surface.