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What is the maximum accuracy of network time synchronization using NTP?

  1. 1ms

  2. 10ms

  3. 100ms

  4. 1 second

The correct answer is: 1ms

Network Time Protocol (NTP) is designed to synchronize the clocks of computers over a network with a high degree of accuracy. The maximum achievable accuracy for network time synchronization using NTP can be as precise as 1 millisecond (ms) under good network conditions and when using a local time server. This precision is possible due to NTP's sophisticated algorithms, which take into account factors such as network latency and jitter. By measuring round-trip delays and adjusting for them, NTP can ensure that time synchronization is as accurate as possible. NTP is widely used in various applications requiring precise timekeeping, including in financial transactions, telecommunications, and data logging systems. While NTP can achieve millisecond accuracy in optimal conditions, under more typical scenarios or with less reliable internet connections, the accuracy may drop to around 10 to 100 milliseconds, or even longer when using simpler time synchronization methods or greater network distances. Nonetheless, in the context of NTP's capabilities, 1ms is considered the maximum accuracy possible, making it the correct choice.