Introduction:

Ensuring accurate timekeeping is crucial for various operations in a computer system, from logging events to coordinating tasks across multiple devices. One method to synchronize time across a network is by utilizing Network Time Protocol (NTP) servers. In this guide, we'll explore how to synchronize time using other network peers in Linux using the timedatectl command, particularly focusing on the chronyd implementation of NTP.

Understanding Chrony and NTP: Chrony is an implementation of the NTP protocol, designed to synchronize system clocks accurately with reference clocks or NTP servers. It offers flexibility in synchronization methods, including synchronization with NTP servers, reference clocks (e.g., GPS receivers), manual time inputs, and acting as an NTP server or peer.

Using Chrony withtimedatectl: To synchronize time using other network peers with chronyd, we can leverage the timedatectl command along with chronyc for monitoring and management. Here's how to utilize these tools effectively:

1. Checking Chrony Status:

    systemctl status chronyd
   

   Use this command to check the status of the chronyd daemon, ensuring it's running and operational.

2. Tracking Chrony Synchronization:

    chronyc tracking
   

   This command provides detailed information about the system's synchronization status with NTP sources, including the offset, delay, and synchronization status.

3. Viewing Chrony Sources:

    chronyc sources
   

   Use this command to view information about the NTP sources configured in Chrony, including their status and reachability.

4. Setting Timezone withtimedatectl:

    sudo timedatectl set-timezone America/New_York
   

   If chronyd is not installed, use timedatectl to set the timezone. Replace America/New_York with the desired timezone.

5. Enabling NTP Synchronization:

    sudo systemctl set-ntp true
   

   This command enables NTP synchronization, allowing the system clock to synchronize with NTP servers automatically.

#To check the status of chronyd use the following command:
systemctl status chronyd

#To Check Chrony Synchronization
chronyc tracking

#To check information about chrony’s sources:
chronyc sources

#Setting timezone if chronyd is not installed
#Ex set to Newyork
sudo timedatectl set-timezone America/New_York

#View all timezones available
timedatectl list-timezones

#If system clock is not in sync with NTP servers run
sudo systemctl set-ntp true

Conclusion:

Synchronizing time using other network peers is essential for maintaining accurate timekeeping in Linux systems, especially in networked environments where coordination is critical. By leveraging tools like chronyd and timedatectl, administrators can ensure that system clocks remain synchronized with reliable NTP sources, minimizing discrepancies and improving system reliability. Understanding how to check synchronization status, configure timezones, and enable NTP synchronization is essential for effective time management in Linux environments.