How to fix Windows 11 when the system clock keeps losing time or is out of sync

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix Windows 11 when the system clock keeps losing time or is out of sync. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If your Windows 11 computer clock keeps losing time, resets to an incorrect date, or fails to synchronise with internet time servers, it can cause problems with file timestamps, website security certificates, and scheduled tasks. This guide walks you through the most common fixes, from checking your time settings to replacing the CMOS battery.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your computer and check if the time corrects itself.
2. Ensure you are connected to the internet, as Windows requires an active connection to synchronise with time servers.
3. Manually synchronise your clock using the steps below.

Detailed Instructions

Manually Synchronise the System Clock

1. Click the Start button and select Settings, or press Windows key + I.
2. In the left sidebar, select Time & language.
3. Click Date & time.
4. Under the Additional settings section, click the Sync now button.
5. Wait for the confirmation message that the synchronisation was successful.

Ensure Automatic Time Settings are Enabled

1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).
2. Go to Time & language > Date & time.
3. Ensure the toggle for Set time automatically is switched On.
4. Ensure the toggle for Set time zone automatically is switched On.
5. Under Time zone, verify that (UTC+10:00) Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney (or your correct Australian time zone) is selected.

Change the Internet Time Server

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type timedate.cpl and press Enter.
3. Click the Internet Time tab.
4. Click Change settings...
5. Check the box Synchronise with an Internet time server.
6. From the Server dropdown, select time.windows.com or enter pool.ntp.org.
7. Click Update now, then click OK.

Run the Windows Time Service Check

1. Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type the following command and press Enter: sc query w32time
3. If the service is not running, type the following command and press Enter: net start w32time
4. To force a resynchronisation, type: w32tm /resync

Troubleshooting Persistent Issues

Check the CMOS Battery

If your computer loses time every time it is powered off or unplugged, the CMOS battery on the motherboard is likely flat. This small coin-cell battery maintains the system clock when the PC is off.

• Desktop PCs: The battery (usually a CR2032) can often be replaced by opening the case and swapping the cell on the motherboard.
• Laptops: Replacing the CMOS battery often requires disassembly. We recommend contacting a qualified technician.

Check for Windows Updates

Outdated system files can occasionally interfere with time synchronisation. Ensure your system is fully updated.

1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).
2. Select Windows Update from the left sidebar.
3. Click Check for updates.
4. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

For further assistance with network or system issues, you can Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team.

Related Articles

• Troubleshooting Network Connectivity in Windows 11
• Troubleshooting Windows 11 Update Issues
• How to update Windows
• Optimizing Windows 11 Performance

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