Linux timekeeping

Linux timekeeping refers to how the Linux operating system manages and maintains accurate time. At its core, it uses a system clock that counts time based on oscillations of a hardware timer. This clock is periodically synchronized with external time sources, like internet time servers, to ensure accuracy. Linux tracks time in seconds since a set point, known as the epoch, which is January 1, 1970. This allows programs to measure time intervals and schedule tasks efficiently. Overall, effective timekeeping is essential for processes, logging events, and coordinating activities within the system.