# Cis Ubuntu1804 V220 2 1 3 2

> Ensure systemd-timesyncd is enabled and running

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-1-3-2` (Agent Skill)
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- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-1-3-2

---


# 2.1.3.2 Ensure systemd-timesyncd is enabled and running (Manual)

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation

## Description

systemd-timesyncd is a daemon that has been added for synchronizing the system clock across the network.

## Rationale

systemd-timesyncd needs to be enabled and running in order to synchronize the system to a timeserver.

Time synchronization is important to support time sensitive security mechanisms and to ensure log files have consistent time records across the enterprise to aid in forensic investigations.

## Audit Procedure

### Command Line

IF systemd-timesyncd is in use on the system, run the following commands:

Run the following command to verify that the systemd-timesyncd service is enabled:

```bash
# systemctl is-enabled systemd-timesyncd.service
enabled
```

Run the following command to verify that the systemd-timesyncd service is active:

```bash
# systemctl is-active systemd-timesyncd.service
active
```

## Expected Result

- `systemctl is-enabled systemd-timesyncd.service` returns `enabled`
- `systemctl is-active systemd-timesyncd.service` returns `active`

## Remediation

### Command Line

IF systemd-timesyncd is in use on the system, run the following commands:

Run the following command to unmask systemd-timesyncd.service:

```bash
# systemctl unmask systemd-timesyncd.service
```

Run the following command to enable and start systemd-timesyncd.service:

```bash
# systemctl --now enable systemd-timesyncd.service
```

OR

If another time synchronization service is in use on the system, run the following command to stop and mask systemd-timesyncd:

```bash
# systemctl --now mask systemd-timesyncd.service
```

## References

1. NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: AU-7, AU-8

## CIS Controls

- v8: 8.4 - Standardize Time Synchronization
- v7: 6.1 - Utilize Three Synchronized Time Sources