How to Fix an Incorrect System Clock on Your Computer

How to Fix an Incorrect System Clock on Your Computer

Is your computer’s clock always wrong? An incorrect system clock can cause a range of issues, from trouble accessing secure websites to software errors and failed updates. Your computer relies on an accurate clock to sync with servers, verify certificates, and maintain system integrity. If your system clock is constantly resetting, showing the wrong time, or drifting, follow these steps to fix it.

1. Check Your Time Zone and Sync Settings

If your system clock is wrong, the first step is to verify the time zone and synchronization settings.

How to Set the Correct Time Zone:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Navigate to Time & Language > Date & Time.

3. Ensure the correct time zone is selected.

4. Toggle Set time automatically to On to sync with internet time servers.

If your computer isn’t syncing correctly, try manually synchronizing it.

Manually Sync the Clock:

1. Scroll down to Additional settings.

2. Click Sync now under the "Synchronize your clock" section.

This forces Windows to update the time using Microsoft's time servers. If this doesn’t work, you may need to check the Windows Time Service.

2. Restart the Windows Time Service

If your system clock isn’t syncing properly, restarting the Windows Time Service can help.

How to Restart Windows Time Service:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.

2. Scroll down and find Windows Time in the list.

3. Right-click and select Restart.

4. If it’s Disabled, right-click, select Properties, and set Startup type to Automatic.

5. Click Apply, then OK.

Restart your computer and check if the time is now correct.

3. Replace the CMOS Battery (For Persistent Clock Issues)

If your system clock resets every time you restart your computer, the issue may be a dead CMOS battery. The CMOS battery powers the BIOS firmware, which stores system settings, including the clock.

How to Replace the CMOS Battery:

1. Turn off your computer and unplug it from power.

2. Open the PC case (for desktops) or remove the bottom panel (for laptops).

3. Locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard (a small, round coin-cell battery).

4. Carefully remove it and replace it with a new CR2032 battery.

5. Close the case, plug in your computer, and power it on.

After replacing the CMOS battery, you may need to reconfigure the BIOS settings and reset the time.

4. Scan for Malware and Corrupt System Files

Sometimes, malware or corrupt system files can interfere with time settings.

Run a Malware Scan:

• Open Windows Security (Windows + I > Privacy & security > Windows Security).

• Click Virus & threat protection, then select Quick scan or Full scan.

Check for Corrupt System Files:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

• Wait for the scan to complete and restart your computer.

5. Contact ABQ Computer Pros for Expert Help

If your system clock is still incorrect after trying these fixes, you may have a deeper hardware or BIOS issue. At ABQ Computer Pros, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing system clock problems, replacing CMOS batteries, and ensuring your computer runs smoothly. Contact us today for fast and reliable computer repair services!