5 Minute HelpDesk – Why is the Time Wrong on My Computer and How  Do I Fix it?

Is your computer clock always showing the wrong time? Does this keep on recurring? Our IT helpdesk experts from Perth will show you why your computer clock shows the wrong time and how to fix it.

Ways to fix your computer clock showing wrong time

1. Check for Windows Updates

Is your Windows version outdated? If yes, it may be the reason why your clock is displaying the wrong time.

To check for Windows update:

• Go to Settings
• Select Update & Security
• Go to Windows Update
• Check for updates
• Install the available updates
• Restart the computer

Then, check the time and see if it’s still inaccurate.

2. Check for malware

Malware can cause your Windows clock to display inaccurate time. Scanning your computer for malware will help you detect and remove it. If your computer doesn’t have an anti-malware program, it’s time to install a good one. Conduct a scan and restart once the scan is completed.

3. Check Windows Time

In Windows, Network Time Protocol (NTP) is responsible for displaying accurate time. It synchronises your system clock’s time with that of other computer servers by communicating on the internet. When this synchronisation setting is not properly configured, it can lead to inaccurate time.

To Check Windows Time

• Open Run command window (Windows + R)
• Enter ” services.msc ”
• Select Windows time
• Right-click on Windows time
• Select Properties
• Check the Startup type and ensure it is “Automatic”
• Check the Service status. If the status shows as “Running”, click “Stop” and then click “Start”. If the status shows “Stopped” click “Start”.
• Then click Apply and Ok

4. Sync computer manually

Windows is capable of synching its time with other time servers on the internet. When this connection with the network is interrupted, the Windows clock may display incorrect time. You can solve it by manually syncing your computer.

To change the Internet Time Server,

• Open” Control Panel” (if you can’t find it, go to the Search Bar and enter “Control Panel”)
• Choose Clock and Region
• Select Date and Time
• Then click on “Internet Time” in the Date and Time Window
• Click “Change settings…”
• Check the “Synchronize with an internet time server” check box is selected.
• In the Server drop-down menu select “time.nist.gov”
• Click “Update now” and “Ok”

5. Change the Time zone

Time zone is responsible for synchronising your computer time with that of the internet time server. When the wrong time zone is selected, the clock will display inaccurate time.

To change the Time zone,

• Click on the Start button
• Open Settings
• Select Time and Language
• Go to Date and Time
• If the “Set time zone automatically” toggle switch is on, turn it off.
• Select the Time zone according to your location from the “Time zone” drop-down menu.

6. Update BIOS

Outdated BIOS can also cause this issue on your computer. So, updating your BIOS can correct your time. Prior to updating, make sure to go through the detailed instructions given in your motherboard manual. This way, you can prevent the chances of causing any damages to your computer.

7. Replace the CMOS Battery

The CMOS chip or Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor is where all the BIOS values, including date and time, are stored. The CMOS battery provides power to this chip. So, the chip can remain operational even when your computer is turned off or not plugged into power.

However, when CMOS battery goes bad or drained, the chip starts losing information. One of the signs indicating this is that your computer displays incorrect date and time. To solve this issue, you will need to replace your computer’s CMOS battery. If you are not familiar with replacing it, taking your computer to a professional is the best choice.

These are the common reason why your computer shows the wrong time and the different ways to fix it. Still can’t get back on time? Contact us or email at helpdesk@computingaustralia.group. Our IT helpdesk is 24/7 ready to assist you with your IT related problems.

Jargon Buster

BIOS – Basic Input/Output System – A program pre-installed on Windows-based computers that the computer uses to start up.
Malware – Malicious software – Any software intentionally designed to cause extensive damage to a computer, client, server, or computer network.