Network Time Protocol (NTP)

The Network Time Protocol (NTP) ensures that all devices on a network use the same time. Time is especially important for ensuring that protocols and data are processed and synchronized correctly. Without NTP, time discrepancies could occur, leading to problems with data transmission and synchronization.

It works by retrieving the exact time from a reliable time server and transmitting it to all devices on the network.

Standard today, but under the radar: Almost every system uses NTP automatically in the background – including smartphones, routers and PCs.

Classification in the OSI model:

• Application layer (Layer 7)
  NTP belongs to the application layer because it is responsible for synchronizing the time on the devices.