DISTRIBUTING TIME INFORMATION

摘要

An integrated network element and time server for distribution of time information in a computer network. The network element comprises means for routing data packets between communication ports, as well as a local clock and means for generating time update request packets and time update reply packets. The tight integration of communication services and time services enables the integrated network element and time server to distribute time update information while avoiding inaccuracies resulting from switching or routing operations. Also described is a method for synchronizing the local clocks of nodes in a communication network, taking advantage of the properties of the integrated network element and time server. The method provides automatic configuration of a time update structure in the network, so that time update information is distributed from one or more master time servers, with integrated network element and time servers working as slave time servers passing the time update information on throughout the network.