Timing Knowledge Centre
Time Synchronisation Protocols: NTP vs PTP
Learn about the differences between Network Time Protocol and Precision Time Protocol, and which you need for your network.
Introduction
Network Time Protocol (NTP) and Precision Time Protocol (PTP) are both networking protocols for maintaining accurate time across digital networks. However, they serve distinctly different purposes.
NTP: Standard Network Timekeeping
NTP is the most widely deployed time synchronisation protocol. It was designed for general internet infrastructure and provides time accuracy within milliseconds. Its key strengths include:
- Broad compatibility across diverse network environments
- Robust performance under variable network conditions
- Support for multiple network topologies
- Minimal hardware requirements
PTP: Microsecond-Level Precision
PTP is a highly accurate time synchronisation protocol. It requires specialised hardware support throughout the network to achieve its highest accuracy. Designed for environments demanding extreme precision, it delivers:
- Microsecond-level time synchronisation
- Specialised hardware support
- Advanced timing correction mechanisms
- Optimal performance in controlled network environments
NTP and PTP Compared
Accuracy: NTP operates in milliseconds; PTP achieves microsecond precision.
Infrastructure: NTP functions on standard networking equipment; PTP requires specialised hardware.
Applications: NTP suits general computing; PTP serves high-stakes sectors like financial trading, telecommunications, and industrial control systems.
Selecting the appropriate protocol depends on your specific network requirements, balancing precision needs against infrastructure complexity and cost.