Method for robust PTP synchronization with default 1588V2 profile

Exemplary methods for reducing sync time in a precision time protocol (PTP) network include receiving, by a first PTP slave port of a first network device, timing messages from a second PTP master port of a second network device. The methods include maintaining a PTP master clock based on timing information included in the timing messages received from the second network device via the first PTP port. The methods further include receiving, by a third PTP passive port of the first network device, timing messages from a fourth PTP master port of a third network device. The methods include determining the third PTP passive port is a protective passive port based on a stepsRemoved value of the third network device, and maintaining an auxiliary clock based on the timing information included in the timing messages received from the third network device via the third PTP port.