How to Configure an Authoritative Time Server in Windows Server 2008
July 19, 2011 by admin · Leave a Comment
Time synchronization in modern computer networks is essential, all computers need to know the year, as many applications from sending e-mail to store information depends on the PC knowing when the event took place.
Microsoft Windows Server from 2000 onwards has a time synchronization utility built into the operating system called Windows Time (w32time.exe) which can be configured to operate as a network time server.
Windows Server 2008 can easily create the system clock to UTC (Coordinated Universal Time, the World's time standard) to be used by accessing an Internet source (either time.windows.com or time.nist.gov).
To achieve this, a user merely has to double click the clock on their desktop and adjust the settings in the Internet Time tab.
But it must be pointed out that Microsoft and other operating system manufacturers strongly recommend that, as the source of the Internet can not be verified, should be used for external timing reference.
To configure the Windows Time service to use an external time source, click Start, Run and type regedit then click OK.
Locate the following subkey:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\Parameters\Type
In the right pane, right-click Type then click Modify, in edit Value type NTP in the Value data box then click OK.
Locate the following subkey:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\Config\AnnounceFlags.
In the right pane, right-click AnnounceFlags and click Modify. The
Network Time Protocol (NTP) is an Internet protocol for the transfer of accurate time using time together and provides information so that an accurate time can be obtained
To enable the Network Time Protocol; NTPserver, locate and click:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\TimeProviders\NtpServer\
In the right pane, right-click Enabled, then click Modify.
In the Edit DWord Value box, type 1 under Value data, then click OK.
Now go back and click on
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\Parameters\NtpServer
In the right pane, right-click in the switch, then switch to the right pane, right-click the Edit DWORD Value under Value Data Types section, change the Domain Name System (DNS, the data type of the value Under the Edit DWORD Value], change.), and each DNS must be unique, you need to add the 0×1 to the end of each DNS name otherwise changes shall take effect .
Now click Ok.
Locate and click the following
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\TimeProviders\NtpClient\SpecialPollInterval
In the right pane, right-click SpecialPollInterval, then click Modify.
In the Edit DWORD Value box, under Value Data, type the number of seconds you want for each poll, ie 900 will poll every 15 minutes, then click OK.
To configure the time correction settings, locate:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\config
In the right pane, right-click MaxPosPhaseCorrection, then Modify in the Edit DWORD under Value, under Base, click Decimal, under Value Data, type a time in seconds such as 3600 (one hour) then click OK.
Now go back and click:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\config
In the right pane, right-click MaxNegPhaseCorrection, then Modify.
In the Edit DWORD box under base, click Decimal, under value data type the time in seconds you want to poll such as 3600 (polls in one hour)
Exit Registry Editor
Now, to restart windows time service, click Start, Run (or alternatively use the command prompt facility) and type:
net stop w32time && net start w32time
And that’s it your time server should be now up and running.
Reliable Computer Repair Can Be Found
November 19, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
A computer is a mystery in a box to many who own one. Its cards, blinking lights and minute circuitry can be really intimidating. Inasmuch, for many who experience problems with their computers, the only way to go is to hire a professional. This is a smart route to go, especially for those who don’t understand the machine’s inner workings, but finding the right pro can be a problem.
There are a number of different choices involved in getting a computer repaired, and it can sometimes be hard to tell when it’s time to call in a pro or not. Here are some circumstances that might require a professional to look at a machine:
* The computer worked fine before you turned it off, and now it won’t restart. It doesn’t appear as if it’s even getting power. Unless there was an electrical strike, this is probably just a power supply issue. It’s fairly easy to fix, but if you don’t know what you’re doing, calling in a pro is smart.
* The computer has power, but the operating system won’t load. This sounds like a software issue. Try rebooting your computer. If that doesn’t work, shut it down and let it cool off for a bit. Then try rebooting. If it’s a no go, call a pro. Software can be even trickier to deal with than hardware concerns.
* The CD or DVD drive doesn’t seem to be reading the disks. Try cleaning the disk drive with a cleaning kit. Don’t just fiddle around with a dust cloth. If this doesn’t work, it might be time to seek advice. The most likely worst-case scenario is the need to replace the drive.
* The computer shuts down spontaneously while in use. After a while, it will reboot, but the problem keeps repeating. This may be either an overheating issue or a problem with the power supply. A qualified technician will be able to determine the cause.
* The computer runs too slow so more memory is desired. Putting in upgrades can be a pretty simple process, but it’s one for the pros if you’re uncomfortable doing so.
Whether you have a minor or major problem, dealing with computer repairs can be a real nightmare. Finding the right professional can take the worry away, but getting the right pro can be a little disconcerting in and of itself. When looking for a pro, consider the following things:
* The shop’s qualifications. Are the technicians qualified to work on your type of machine? Do they have certifications?
* The down time. Will the shop be able to get the computer back to you when you need it? Is a loaner machine a possibility?
* Can they send someone to your location? This is being offered more and more as many minor problems can be handled onsite in a quicker fashion than having the computer delivered to the shop.
* Pricing. Get an estimate. Some shops will charge by the hour, others use flat fees.
Finding a good computer pro to handle repairs is a smart way to go. Not only does it give the customer peace of mind in knowing someone qualified is working on the machine, it can help keep warranties intact.
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