> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://doc.engenius.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://doc.engenius.ai/bmc-user-guide/configuration/date-and-time.md).
# Date & Time
Accurate timekeeping is essential for effective server management. When the BMC's time is correct, it ensures that all system logs, event timestamps, and certificates are valid and can be correlated accurately across your entire network.
This chapter shows you how to set the BMC's clock manually and how to configure it to synchronize automatically with a time server.
## **Setting the date and time manually**
You can set the time directly if the server is in an isolated network without access to an NTP server.
1. In the sidebar menu, navigate to **Settings** > **Date and time**.
2. Select the **Manual** configuration option.
3. Enter the current **Date** in `YYYY-MM-DD` format.
4. Enter the current **Time** in `HH:MM` format (24-hour clock).
5. Select the correct **Timezone** from the dropdown list.
6. Click **Save settings**.
## **Synchronizing time with an NTP server**
Using the Network Time Protocol (NTP) is the recommended method for all production servers. It ensures the BMC's clock is always accurate and synchronized with a reliable source.
1. On the **Date and time** page, select the **NTP** configuration option.
2. Enter the IP address or hostname of your primary NTP server in the **Server 1** field (e.g., `pool.ntp.org`).
3. (Optional) You can enter backup NTP servers in the **Server 2** and **Server 3** fields for redundancy.
4. Click **Save settings**.
{% hint style="success" %}
**Best Practice: Use NTP for consistency**
Always use NTP to synchronize time across all your servers and network devices. This practice is critical for troubleshooting, as it allows you to build an accurate timeline of events when investigating an issue that involves multiple systems.
{% endhint %}
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