How to set correct time zone on Windows 10

Is Windows 10 displaying the wrong time? It's probably because your device has the incorrect time zone configured — Here's how to fix it.

Time zone settings on Windows 10
Time zone settings on Windows 10

Windows 10 configures the default time zone on a new installation to display the correct time on your computer. Although the system is very accurate in detecting your location to use the correct settings, sometimes your computer may not have the right configuration for the local time, especially if you’re traveling.

Thankfully, Windows 10 offers many ways to change the time zone on your device, and there is even an option in the Settings app to let the OS set the time zone automatically.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to set the correct time zone on your Windows 10 device using the Settings app and Control panel.

Set time zone manually on Windows 10

To change the time zone on Windows 10, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Click on Time & Language.

  3. Click on Date & time.

  4. Use the “Time zone” drop-down menu to select the correct time zone.

    Chand time zone manually

Once you complete the steps, Windows 10 will use the selected time zone.

Set time zone automatically on Windows 10

To let Windows 10 set the time zone automatically, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Click on Time & Language.

  3. Click on Date & time.

  4. Turn on the Set time zone automatically toggle switch.

    Change time zone automatically

Once you complete the steps, the “Time zone” drop-down menu will be grayed out, and Windows 10 will set the correct for your location.

Set time zone using Control Panel

To change the time zone settings with Control Panel, use these steps:

  1. Open Control Panel.

  2. Click on Clock and Region.

  3. Click the Change the time zone option.

    Control Panel change time zone

  4. Click the Change time zone button.

    Control Panel date and time settings

  5. Select the correct time zone for your location on Windows 10.

    Control Panel set time zone

  6. Click the OK button.

  7. Click the Apply button.

After you complete the steps, the computer will use the selected time zone. Also, note that you can choose the option to adjust the clock for Daylight Saving Time automatically.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.

Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.

Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.

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