Why Time Synchronization

Accurate time protects the enterprise and enhances applications

Many events on the network rely on time to initiate and control processes, accurately time stamp files and logs, and complete transactions such as authentication. What if every network device is keeping different time? Inaccurate time stamps and log files critical for billing systems, network diagnostics, digital forensics, high-reliability databases and process analysis puts the entire system at risk. Imagine not understanding what happened to which computers for anti-hacking and disaster recovery effort or explaining how a critical system failed due to inaccurate time.

Yet clocks in electronic devices are not designed for accuracy. A typical computer clock can drift 1 to 10 seconds a day. That's up to an hour in a year minutes in a year! The solution to clock drift is to employ network time synchronization throughout the network. Time synchronized to official time offers the accuracy needed for the monitoring and operations of efficient networks and new network deployments.

Without time synchronization…

• Event logging, auditing and intrusion detection across devices and systems is very difficult.
• Client/Server transactions may produce unexpected results.
• Email message time stamps may be wrong leading to unexpected transmission issues.
• Many cryptographic functions such as those involving key exchange and expiration such as Window's Kerberos may not function or function properly.
• Event or programming scheduling may not work as expected.
• Revision control systems may not work as expected if transaction precedence can not be established.
• Security certificates, cookies, DHCP, WINS leases may not operate correctly.
• File creation, access times will be wrong across different computers, so that back-ups may not work as expected.
• Applications such as Active Directory and NetWare NDS may not work right.
• Accuracy of electronic records as requires by many regulations and standards can not be guaranteed.

With time synchronization…

• Accurate time is fully automated, eliminating error-prone manual setting.
• Your network is protected against hacking, intrusion fraud and commercial disputes.
• Fault diagnosis and file and network restoration is possible.
• Your regulatory compliance and security policy programs are supported.
• Time-based records can be legally traceable.
• The network is interoperable and operates efficiently.

Synchronizing beyond computer clocks

Network time synchronization is more important than ever due to the proliferation of IP-based products and systems. Time synchronization is being extended beyond servers, workstations, routers and firewalls. Improve the efficiency of your entire enterprise by synchronizing your voice and telephony systems, access control systems, video surveillance and CCTV, building automation, fire alarms and displays.

Implementing time synchronization is easy

Enterprise-wide time synchronization requires the use of a master clock that is traceable to national standards. For reliability, security and manageability, we recommend the use of a Spectracom GPS Time Server as your master clock to synchronize your network. It is an easy to install and manage network time server that operates behind your firewall for low cost investment protection of your network resources.

Legally Traceable Time®

• Secure time from inside the network
• >Easy installation and management
• Low-cost investment protection