The Network Time Protocol (NTP) enables routers to synchronize their internal system time with a remote server over the internet. Ericsson Cradlepoint routers cannot disable NTP; without it, the system time relies on the local real-time clock (RTC), which may be inaccurate and subject to drift due to temperature variations and component tolerances. When NTP is enabled, the router synchronizes its time once daily and each time it reboots.
Ericsson Cradlepoint routers support both NTP and Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP). SNTP is the default protocol and is preferred because it requires less local processing power and storage to operate. NTP, on the other hand, provides extremely precise time synchronization, to the nanosecond, by utilizing advanced time-correction algorithms. However, this level of accuracy requires additional local resources, as the router serves as the NTP server for its LAN clients.
This document outlines how to configure time zone settings, SNTP, and NTP for your routers using Ericsson NetCloud Manager.