Few things are more frustrating than turning on your computer and noticing that the time and date are completely wrong. Maybe your Windows laptop thinks it’s still last week, or the clock resets every time you restart. At first glance, this might seem like a small issue—but incorrect time and date settings can break internet connections, cause login failures, disrupt software updates, and even prevent websites from loading securely.
The good news? This problem is very common, and in most cases, it’s easy to fix once you understand the real cause. In this guide, you’ll learn why Windows shows the wrong time and date and how to fix it using simple, proven methods. Whether you’re a beginner or a regular PC user, this article walks you through every solution step by step—no technical jargon, no copy-paste advice, just real fixes that work.
Why Windows Shows the Wrong Time and Date
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand why this happens. Windows doesn’t randomly change the time—there’s usually a clear reason behind it.
The most common causes include:
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Incorrect time zone settings
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Windows Time service not working properly
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A dead or failing CMOS battery
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Dual-boot systems (Windows + Linux)
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Corrupted system settings or updates
Identifying the root cause helps you apply the right fix instead of wasting time on trial and error.
Check and Correct the Time Zone Settings
One of the most overlooked reasons Windows shows the wrong time is an incorrect time zone. Even if the clock looks only a few hours off, the time zone is often the real problem.
How to fix time zone settings:
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Right-click the Date and Time on the taskbar
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Select Adjust date and time
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Scroll to Time zone
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Choose the correct region from the dropdown
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Turn Set time zone automatically ON
If you recently traveled, used a VPN, or installed a fresh copy of Windows, the system may have selected the wrong region by default.
Pro tip: Restart your PC after changing the time zone to ensure the setting sticks.
Sync Windows Time with an Internet Time Server
Windows relies on online time servers to stay accurate. If syncing fails, the clock can slowly drift or reset completely.
Manually sync your time:
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Open Settings → Time & Language → Date & Time
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Scroll down to Additional settings
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Click Sync now
If syncing fails, don’t panic—this usually means the Windows Time service isn’t running properly.
Restart and Reconfigure the Windows Time Service
The Windows Time service (W32Time) is responsible for keeping your system clock accurate. If it’s disabled or stuck, your time won’t update correctly.
Fix the Windows Time service:
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Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter -
Find Windows Time
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Right-click → Restart
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Right-click again → Properties
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Set Startup type to Automatic
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Click Apply → OK
After restarting the service, sync the time again from settings.
Manually Set the Date and Time
If automatic syncing keeps failing, manually setting the time can act as a temporary fix—especially if you’re offline.
Steps:
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Go to Settings → Date & Time
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Turn OFF Set time automatically
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Click Change under “Set the date and time manually”
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Enter the correct date and time
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Turn automatic time back ON
If the time resets after a restart, the issue is likely hardware-related.
Replace the CMOS Battery (Most Common Long-Term Fix)
If your Windows PC keeps showing the wrong time every time you shut it down, the CMOS battery is almost certainly dead.
The CMOS battery is a small coin-shaped battery on the motherboard that keeps system settings—including time—saved when the computer is off.
Signs of a dead CMOS battery:
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Time resets after every shutdown
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BIOS settings don’t save
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Boot warnings about system time
Solution:
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Replace the CMOS battery (usually CR2032)
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It’s inexpensive and available at most electronics stores
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On laptops, a technician may be required
Once replaced, set the correct time and the problem usually disappears permanently.
Fix Time Issues After Windows Updates
Sometimes, Windows updates can unintentionally reset system settings, including date and time configurations.
What to do:
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Recheck time zone and sync settings after updates
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Run Windows Update again to install pending patches
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Restart the system twice (yes, twice—it helps apply background changes)
Keeping Windows fully updated reduces time-sync bugs and system errors.
Dual-Boot Systems (Windows and Linux) Time Conflict
If you use both Windows and Linux on the same computer, you may notice the time changes every time you switch operating systems.
This happens because:
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Windows uses local time
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Linux uses UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)
Fix:
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Configure Linux to use local time
OR -
Adjust Windows registry to use UTC
This is a known compatibility issue, not a hardware fault.
Scan for System File Corruption
Corrupted system files can also affect time services and background processes.
Run System File Checker:
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator
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Type:
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Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete
If corrupted files are found, Windows will automatically repair them.
When to Seek Professional Help
If none of the above solutions work and the time still resets or drifts, the problem may involve:
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Motherboard issues
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BIOS firmware bugs
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Power supply instability
In such cases, a professional diagnosis is recommended, especially for older systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows time keep changing by itself?
This usually happens due to incorrect time zone settings, failed internet sync, or a dead CMOS battery. Fixing the root cause solves the issue permanently.
Can wrong time and date affect internet and apps?
Yes. Incorrect time can break secure websites, block software updates, cause login errors, and interfere with antivirus programs.
How often should Windows sync time?
Windows typically syncs once a week, but you can manually sync anytime from Date & Time settings.
Does resetting Windows fix time problems?
It can, but it’s rarely necessary. Most time issues are fixed by syncing, services repair, or replacing the CMOS battery.
Is this issue dangerous for my PC?
No, but leaving it unresolved can cause software malfunctions and security certificate errors.
Final Thoughts:
A wrong time and date on Windows may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can quietly disrupt your entire system. From broken internet connections to failed updates, the impact is real. The good news is that most fixes are simple, fast, and free—whether it’s adjusting your time zone, restarting the Windows Time service, or replacing a small battery.
By following the steps in this guide, you can confidently fix the issue and prevent it from coming back. A correctly set clock keeps your system secure, stable, and running smoothly—just the way it should.
If you found this guide helpful, bookmarking it could save you time the next time Windows decides to play tricks with your clock.