Is NTP still used?

NTP, or Network Time Protocol, has been in operation for over three decades, dating back to before 1985. This makes it one of the most enduring and widely used internet protocols to date.

The primary function of NTP is to synchronize the clocks of computer systems over a network. It ensures that all devices connected to the network have a consistent and accurate understanding of time.

The importance of accurate time synchronization cannot be overstated. It is crucial for various applications, including logging, scheduling, and distributed computing, where the precise timing of events is essential.

NTP achieves its goal of time synchronization by utilizing a hierarchical system of time servers. These servers are organized into strata, with stratum 0 representing the most accurate time sources, such as atomic clocks.

As the stratum number increases, the accuracy of the time source decreases. However, even the lower-stratum servers can provide highly accurate time when calibrated properly.