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Computer Network Time Synchronization
# Examines the technological infrastructure of time dissemination, distribution, and synchronization
# Describes design network configuration options appropriate for public and private NTP networks
# Demonstrates how to predict and calibrate performance based on statistics from NTP clients and servers
# Provides a basis to evaluate the
cryptanalytic strengths and vulnerabilities of the NTP model
# Explains the operating principles of NTP and how the protocol works in practice
What started with the sundial has, thus far, been refined to a level of precision based on atomic resonance: Time. Our obsession with time is evident in this continued scaling down to nanosecond resolution and beyond. But this obsession is not without warrant. Precision and time synchronization are critical in many applications, such as air traffic control and stock trading, and pose complex and important challenges in modern information networks.
Penned by David L. Mills, the original developer of the Network Time Protocol (NTP), Computer Network Time Synchronization: The Network Time Protocol takes a broad look at the architecture, protocols, and algorithms involved in time dissemination, distribution, and synchronization. Focused on the fourth generation of NTP, Mills' magnum opus gives an in-depth configuration and performance analysis of typical deployed NTP networks as well as a detailed error budget showing the influence of network and computer delay variations on accuracy. Mills demonstrates the algorithms used to select measurements accessed via diverse pathways to achieve the best accuracy, addresses security issues in depth, and describes the engineering principles underlying NTP architecture and timestamping exchange procedures.
Opening the door to highly precise time synchronization in both public and private networks, Computer Network Time Synchronization offers in-depth analysis, theory, and practical concerns in a unified and authoritative reference.
Basic concepts
How NTP works
In the belly of the beast
Clock discipline algorithm
NTP subject configuration
NTP performance in the internet
Primary servers
Kernel timekeeping support
Cryptographic authentication
Identity schemes
Analysis of errors
Metrology
NTP reference implementation
Technical history of NTP
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