How to Change Time and Date on Windows 10/11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping the correct date and time on your Windows computer is crucial for many functions, such as system updates, scheduled tasks, and network synchronization. Whether you need to adjust the time zone, correct an inaccurate clock, or manually set the date and time, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change the date and time on Windows 10 and 11.

Step-by-Step Guide for Windows 10

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Select the Settings gear icon from the Start menu.

Step 2: Access Date & Time Settings

1. In the Settings window, click on Time & Language.
2. Select Date & time from the left-hand menu.

Step 3: Change Date and Time

1. To set the date and time manually, toggle off the Set time automatically switch.
2. Click on the Change button under Set the date and time manually.
3. In the dialog box that appears, adjust the date and time as needed.
4. Click Change to apply the new settings.

Step 4: Adjust Time Zone

1. Under the Time zone section, use the drop-down menu to select your time zone.
2. Optionally, toggle on the Set time zone automatically switch to allow Windows to set your time zone based on your location.

Step 5: Additional Settings (Optional)

1. To enable automatic time synchronization, toggle on the Set time automatically switch.
2. Ensure the Synchronize your clock option is enabled under Additional settings to sync your clock with Windows’ time servers.

Step-by-Step Guide for Windows 11

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start button in the center or left of your taskbar.
2. Select the Settings gear icon from the Start menu.

Step 2: Access Date & Time Settings

1. In the Settings window, click on Time & Language.
2. Select Date & time from the left-hand menu.

Step 3: Change Date and Time

1. To set the date and time manually, toggle off the Set time automatically switch.
2. Click on the Change button under Set the date and time manually.
3. Adjust the date and time in the dialog box that appears.
4. Click Change to save the new settings.

Step 4: Adjust Time Zone

1. In the Time zone section, use the drop-down menu to select your appropriate time zone.
2. Optionally, toggle on the Set time zone automatically switch to let Windows adjust your time zone based on your location.

Step 5: Additional Settings (Optional)

1. Toggle on the Set time automatically switch to enable automatic time updates.
2. Make sure the Synchronize your clock feature is enabled to keep your system time accurate with Windows’ time servers.

Additional Tips

• Internet Time Synchronization: If you find that your clock is frequently incorrect, ensure your system is set to synchronize with an internet time server. You can find this option in the Additional settings section under Date & Time settings.
• Daylight Saving Time: Check the Adjust for daylight saving time automatically option to ensure your clock changes correctly during daylight saving time periods.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Incorrect Time After Restart: If your time resets after restarting, ensure that your BIOS/UEFI firmware is up to date and that the CMOS battery on your motherboard is functioning properly.
• Time Zone Issues: If Windows is not setting the correct time zone automatically, double-check your location settings and ensure your device has location services enabled.

Changing the date and time on Windows 10 and 11 is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can easily ensure that your system's clock is accurate and synchronized. For more detailed tutorials and tips on optimizing your Windows settings, visit Tune Windows.