4 Ways to Sync Windows 10 Time with a Microsoft Time Server

If your Windows 10 clock is drifting, showing the wrong time zone, or failing to stay accurate after a reboot, syncing it with Microsoft’s time server is usually the quickest fix. Windows can update its clock automatically, but the feature does not always work the way it should.

This guide shows four practical ways to synchronize Windows 10 time with a Microsoft server, from the easiest built-in option to more direct command-line methods.

Why Windows 10 Time Sync Matters

An incorrect system clock can cause more problems than just the wrong time on the taskbar. It can break sign-ins, make secure websites look unsafe, interfere with Microsoft account services, and cause issues with apps that rely on accurate timestamps.

1. Sync Time from Windows 10 Settings

This is the simplest method and the one most people should try first. It uses the built-in Date & time settings page to refresh the clock from a Microsoft time server.

1. Right-click the clock in the taskbar and select Adjust date/time, or open Settings and go to Time & Language > Date & time.
2. Make sure Set time automatically is turned on.
3. If the time zone is wrong, turn on Set time zone automatically or choose the correct time zone manually.
4. Scroll down and click Sync now under Synchronize your clock.

2. Use the Classic Control Panel Time Sync Tool

Windows 10 still includes the older Internet Time settings screen. On some systems, this method is useful when the modern Settings page does not appear to update correctly.

1. Open the Start menu, type Control Panel, and open it.
2. Set the view to Large icons or Small icons, then choose Date and Time.
3. Open the Internet Time tab.
4. Click Change settings.
5. Make sure Synchronize with an Internet time server is selected.
6. Choose time.windows.com from the server list if it is not already selected.
7. Click Update now, then OK to save the setting.

3. Force a Time Sync with Command Prompt

If the normal buttons do not work, you can tell Windows to resynchronize manually from an elevated Command Prompt. This is a good option when you want a direct check of the Windows Time service.

1. Type cmd in the Start menu search box.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
3. Enter the following command and press Enter: w32tm /resync
4. If Windows says the service is not running or the sync failed, continue with the next method to restart the time service.

4. Restart or Reconfigure the Windows Time Service

If Windows keeps refusing to sync, the Windows Time service may be stopped, disabled, or stuck on an invalid configuration. Restarting the service often fixes persistent clock problems.

1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Windows Time in the list.
3. Double-click it and make sure Startup type is set to Automatic or Manual.
4. If the service is stopped, click Start. If it is already running, click Stop and then Start again.
5. Click Apply, then OK.
6. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run w32tm /resync again.

How to Confirm the Sync Worked

After using any of the methods above, confirm that the clock matches the correct time zone and current time. You can also compare the system clock with a trusted source, such as your phone or another internet-connected device.

• The clock should change immediately or within a short delay after sync
• The time zone should match your location
• The date should also be correct, not just the hour and minute
• If the clock drifts again quickly, the issue is likely deeper than a simple sync failure

If Windows Still Won't Stay Accurate

If none of these methods solve the problem, the cause may be outside Windows time synchronization itself. Common culprits include incorrect BIOS time, disabled internet access, a faulty CMOS battery, or security software blocking time updates.

• Check that the PC has a working internet connection
• Make sure the correct time zone is selected
• Verify the BIOS/UEFI clock is correct
• Look for any third-party firewall or security tool blocking time services
• Replace the CMOS battery on older desktops and laptops if the clock resets when powered off

Which Method Should You Try First?

Start with the Settings app because it is the fastest and easiest fix. If that does not work, move to the Control Panel time settings, then try the Command Prompt resync. If the problem still returns, focus on the Windows Time service and hardware-related causes such as the CMOS battery.