P-TimeSync: A Precise Time Synchronization Simulation with Network Propagation Delays

Time serves as the foundation of modern society and will continue to grow in value in the future world. Unlike previous research papers, authors delve into various time sources, ranging from atomic time and GPS time to quartz time. Specifically, we explore the time uncertainty associated with the four major Global Navigation Satellite Systems. Additionally, we provide a summary of eight metrics used to evaluate time accuracy. In existing time synchronization simulations provide partial usages. However, our research introduces a comprehensive and precise time synchronization simulation named P-TimeSync, leading to a better understanding of time synchronization in distributed environments. It is a state-of-the-art simulation tool for time because (1) it can simulate atomic clocks and quartz clocks with user-defined software clock algorithms, (2) the simulation provides nanosecond-level precision time across different network propagation paths and distances, (3) the tool offers a visualization platform with classic algorithms for distributed time synchronization, such as Cristian's algorithm and Berkeley algorithm, and (4) the simulation includes three time-sync attack functions, including distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack, IP spoofer, and router hijacker. The simulation easily allows for the redefinition of configurations and functions, supporting advanced research and development. The simulation tool could be downloaded via the website: https://github.com/rui5097/purdue_timesync