What does the number in an NTP stratum level represent?

Question

Exhibit

Options

• AThe number of hops it takes to reach the master time server.
• BThe number of hops it takes to reach the authoritative time source.
• CThe amount of offset between the device clock and true time.
• DThe amount of drift between the device clock and true time.

• B
  92% (12)
• D
  8% (1)

Explanation

NTP Stratum Levels Explained

In NTP (Network Time Protocol), the stratum number indicates how many hops away a device is from the original authoritative time source - such as an atomic clock or GPS receiver (Stratum 0). A Stratum 1 server is directly connected to that authoritative source, a Stratum 2 server syncs from a Stratum 1 server, and so on, making Option B correct.

Option A is close but uses imprecise language - the term "master time server" is vague and misleading; NTP specifically measures distance from an authoritative time source (like an atomic clock), not just any "master" server. Options C and D are incorrect because offset (the difference between the device clock and true time) and drift (how fast a clock gains or loses time) are separate NTP measurements - real values tracked by NTP, but not what the stratum number represents.

Memory Tip: Think of "stratum" like geological layers - the deeper you go from the surface (Stratum 0, the atomic clock), the further you are from the original source. A higher stratum number = more hops = less precise time.

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