Using a Time Server in the Network
Time servers that support NTP such as Spectracom's Time Servers and Master Clocks can either synchronize the Domain Controller (DC) and the DC automatically synchronizes the Windows PCs on the network (NT/XP/2000/95/98) OR every Windows PC on the network can be synchronized directly to the Time Server (not supported by 95/98). Each of these options is a valid configuration and the decision of which configuration to use is based upon the desired network's time accuracy versus continuity, in the event of Time Server loss, without a redundant system.
Domain Controller synchronizes to the Time Server
In this configuration, the Domain Controller (DC) is steered to the time server as the authoritative time controller and all of the workstations on the network sync to the DC at their next scheduled interval. The advantage to this method is that if the time server is disconnected from the network, the network will still have time continuity throughout. The disadvantage to this method is that the DC will be drifting between scheduled sync intervals. If the workstation syncs to the DC between sync intervals, the time of each workstation may not be as accurate at its time sync interval as it would be if it they syncing directly to the time server as the time reference.
Time Server directly synchronizes all servers and workstations
In this configuration, the Domain Controller (DC) and all other Windows NT, XP and 2000 clients are configured to use the time server as the authoritative time controller. Windows 95 and 98 workstations will still have to be synced to the Domain Controller. The advantage to this method is that all PCs will be accurately synchronized to the correct time at every time sync interval. They won't be synchronizing to a reference that may be drifting. The disadvantage to this method is that if the Time Server is disconnected from the network, the network will no longer have time continuity throughout. The times on the workstations will be drifting separately from each other. Redundant Time Servers are recommended for mission critical applications.