How to Fix Time Synchronization Failed in Windows

If your Windows PC keeps showing a “Time Synchronization Failed” error, you’re not alone. This issue can mess with app functionality, cause SSL certificate errors, and even prevent logins on some networks. The good news? It’s usually easy to fix.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your system clock back in sync.

Why Time Sync Fails in Windows

Windows tries to sync your system clock with an internet time server (like time.windows.com). When it fails, it’s often due to:

• Internet connectivity issues
• Misconfigured time server
• Windows Time service problems
• Firewall or third-party antivirus interference
• Corrupt registry or system files

1. Check Your Internet Connection

This might seem obvious, but make sure your PC is connected to the internet. No connection = no time sync.

2. Manually Sync the Clock

Sometimes, a manual sync is all you need.

1. Right-click the clock on your taskbar
2. Choose “Adjust date/time”
3. Scroll down and click “Sync now” under “Additional settings”

If it still fails, move on to the next step.

3. Change the Time Server

The default server might be down or unreachable.

1. Open Control Panel > Date and Time
2. Go to the Internet Time tab
3. Click “Change settings…”
4. In the “Server” box, enter a reliable time server like:
   • pool.ntp.org
   • time.nist.gov
5. Click “Update now”, then OK

4. Restart the Windows Time Service

The Windows Time service might be stuck.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter
2. Find Windows Time in the list
3. Right-click and choose Restart
4. If it’s not running, right-click and choose Start
5. Set the Startup Type to Automatic if it isn’t already

5. Use Command Prompt to Re-register the Time Service

If restarting the service didn’t work, try re-registering it:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Run the following commands one at a time: net stop w32time w32tm /unregister w32tm /register net start w32time w32tm /resync
3. Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

6. Check Firewall or Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus might block the time sync process. Temporarily disable them and try syncing again. If it works, whitelist the w32time service or NTP port (UDP 123).

7. Scan for Corrupted Files

Corrupt system files can break time sync.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Type: sfc /scannow
3. Let it scan and fix issues. Reboot when it’s done.

8. As a Last Resort: Set Time Manually

If nothing works and syncing is critical (for work, school, or gaming), you can set your time manually:

1. Go to Settings > Time & Language
2. Toggle off Set time automatically
3. Click Change under “Set the date and time manually”

This isn’t ideal long-term, but it gets the job done.

Final Thoughts

Time sync failures are frustrating but rarely fatal. With the steps above, you should be able to fix the issue without diving too deep into tech support hell. If the problem keeps coming back, you might want to check for malware or consider a clean reinstall of Windows.

Got questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments.