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Time synchronization is a crucial aspect when it comes to running a network. It ensures that all the devices on a network are on the same time, thus making it easier to track events discrepancies. Inaccurate time can result in operations failure and security risks. That’s why the need for reliable time synchronization software cannot be overstated. One such software is Network Time System. However, like any other software, it is not perfect, and that’s why we are going to explore top 6 alternatives to Network Time System that you can use for time synchronization.
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What is Network Time System?
Network Time System is an NTP server and client software that allows for time server synchronization on a network. It ensures that all the devices on a network maintain an accurate time and are synchronized. It is compatible with both Windows and Linux OS and comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use.
Top 6 Alternatives to Network Time System for Time Synchronization
1. Best Alternative: Chrony
Chrony is a popular software for time synchronization. It is an NTP and PTP client and server that supports both IPv4 and IPv6. It has an accurate clock disciplining algorithm that ensures that the clock is stable, synchronized, and accurate. With Chrony, you can synchronize to GPS or radio time signals. Chrony has been tested and proven to be reliable, precise, and accurate, making it a favorite choice for many system administrators.
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2. Top Alternative: TimeSync Pro
TimeSync Pro is an NTP client and server software developed by SoftCab Inc. It provides synchronization for Windows-based computers and servers. It is easy to use and comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to monitor and adjust the clock accuracy. With TimeSync Pro, you can synchronize clocks on a network without complex configurations. It also allows for manual synchronization with an NIST time server.
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3. Top Alternative: Meinberg NTP
Meinberg NTP is another popular software for time synchronization. It is an NTP server and client that is highly accurate and reliable. It supports both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols and can synchronize with GPS and radio time signals. Meinberg NTP is compatible with different operating systems like Windows, Linux, and Unix, making it highly flexible. It also has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use.
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4. Top Alternative: NetTime
NetTime is a free software for time synchronization on Windows-based computers. It is easy to use and has a simple interface that makes it easy to configure. With this software, you can synchronize clocks on a network to a time server. It uses the SNTP protocol and can synchronize with an internet time server.
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5. Top Alternative: PresenTense Time Server
PresenTense Time Server is an NTP and SNTP server software that provides high accuracy and reliability in time synchronization. It allows for synchronization to GPS, atomic clock, or radio sources, making it highly reliable. PresenTense Time Server is compatible with both Windows and Linux-based servers and comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use.
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6. Top Alternative: NTP Server
NTP Server is an NTP clock server software that provides accurate and reliable synchronization for computers and devices on a network. It can synchronize clocks to GPS, radio, or atomic clocks. It has a simple and straightforward configuration interface, making it easy to use. NTP Server is compatible with different operating systems like Windows, Linux, Unix, and FreeBSD.
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Comprehensive Comparison of Each Software
| Software | Free Trial | Price | Ease-of-use | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chrony | No | $1,195 | Easy for experienced users, a bit complicated for new users | High-value price due to its accuracy and reliability |
| TimeSync Pro | 14 days | $39.00 to $99.00 | Very easy to use with a user-friendly interface | Good value for the price |
| Meinberg NTP | No | Free to $16,972.00 | Easy for experienced users, a bit complicated for new users | High-value price due to its accuracy and reliability |
| NetTime | No | Free | Very easy to use with a simple interface | Great value for a free software |
| PresenTense Time Server | 30 days | $195.95 to $1012.95 | Very easy to use with a user-friendly interface | High-value price due to its accuracy and reliability |
| NTP Server | 14 days | $299 for 5 servers | Easy for experienced users, a bit complicated for new users | High-value price due to its accuracy and reliability |
Our Thoughts on Network Time System
Network Time System is reliable software for time synchronization on a network. It comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use. However, it is not without its downsides like the high cost of purchasing a license for commercial use. If you are looking for alternatives, then the above-listed software can provide highly accurate and reliable synchronization at an affordable price or even for free.
FAQs about Network Time System
Q1: Can I use any of the alternatives with Network Time System?
A: Yes. Software like Chrony, TimeSync Pro, Meinberg NTP, NetTime, PresenTense Time Server, and NTP Server can synchronize with Network Time System if you choose to switch between them.
Q2: Which alternative to Network Time System is free?
A: NetTime is the only software from our list that is completely free.
Q3: Can I synchronize a network with GPS signal using NTP Server?
A: Yes. NTP Server is one of the software that allows synchronization with GPS signals.
Q4: Which alternative to Network Time System is compatible with Linux OS?
A: Both Chrony and Meinberg NTP are compatible with Linux OS.
Q5: Can I synchronize time with atomic clocks using PresenTense Time Server?
A: Yes. PresenTense Time Server is one of the software that allows synchronization with atomic clocks.
In Conclusion
We all know how important time synchronization is for any network. If you are looking for an alternative to Network Time System, then the above-listed software can provide an accurate and reliable synchronization solution. From the highly accurate Chrony to the user-friendly NetTime or the flexible Meinberg NTP, the choice is yours based on your needs and budget.