What stratum 16 means
NTP stratum 16 indicates an unsynchronized state. It does not represent another synchronized level in the time-source hierarchy. See Understanding NTP Stratum Levels and Reported Time Authority for the stratum definitions.
Reference status and time service
Check whether the server is synchronized to its configured reference. During reference loss, the device may enter holdover, and its time-dissemination settings can determine whether it continues serving time. Receiving a response alone does not establish that the server has a synchronized reference.
Do not use reported stratum as an accuracy fix
The GMR manual stratum setting changes the reported value, not reference quality or time accuracy. Review reference status and the actual synchronization problem instead of treating a lower reported stratum as proof that it is resolved.
Related articles
Article ID: KB-NTP-006
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