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One of the oldest internet communication protocols still in use today, NTP enables time synchronization across network devices. Despite being a critical part of many computer processes, it’s very easy to overlook. The goal of NTP is to synchronize computers with respect to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

The number of attacks against computer networks has increased during the pandemic, and it’s important to remember that NTP (Network Time Protocol) is often targeted by hackers as a potential vulnerability. As your business might be at risk, understanding the issue is key to avoiding the damage these attacks can cause to your services.

Without Network Time Protocol (NTP), it would be impossible to synchronize time across networked devices. However, more and more cyberattacks continue to target NTP as a potential vulnerability in network security. If you haven’t previously given it any thought, it’s critical you review how to secure this vital service against any external attack.

Cybersecurity has become an increasingly prevalent issue, especially due to the high number of online attacks during the pandemic. Despite a surge in spending by many organisations to bolster their network security, there often remain overlooked elements which continue to be vulnerable. One such element is time synchronization.

NTP (Network Time Protocol) is a networking protocol which synchronizes clocks in computers and other electronic devices, either over the internet or local networks. It has been in continual use since its creation in the 1980s by Dr David Mills, a professor at the University of Delaware.

Unlike multi-application devices or typical servers, Network Time Servers are designed to serve one specific purpose: the continuous and precise synchronisation of time across your network.

The following steps are those which are recommended to increase security for a Netsilon Time Server operating behind a firewall on a private network.

In the healthcare sector, accurate time can be the important information that will make the difference between life and death. No matter the size or scope of your medical facility, time is used in many different processes and systems, and ensuring its precision will increase patient care and efficiency.

Distributing accurate time is a vital part of sustaining network infrastructure. It’s also a critical element of network security, both when it comes to the expiry dates on certificates and timestamped system logs used for troubleshooting.

It’s approaching the end of another day, and as the clock on the office wall shows 5pm, your staff pack up and leave. However, what if that clock isn’t accurate? As your employees go out the door, you notice that your computer clock shows 4.55pm, which is actually the correct time. Someone leaving five minutes early doesn’t seem like an important matter. However, this lost time soon adds up when you start to consider a few basic factors.