The IEEE1588 network time synchronization, matched with smart substation information network transmission, is becoming the next generation advanced data synchronization of the smart substation. It is known that the inherent asymmetry error of the network synchronization approach in the smart substation is highlighted, which is concerned particularly. This paper models the synchronization process of the IEEE1588 based on the communication simulation software of OPNET Modeler. Firstly, it builds the models of master-slave clock, IEEE1588 protocol and network synchroniza- tion model, and analyzes the composition and influencing factors of the asymmetry error. Secondly, it quantitatively analyzes the influence of the synchronous asymmetric error of the IEEE1588 affected by the network status differences and the clock synchronization signal transmission path differences. Then its correction method is analyzed, in order to improve the IEEE1588 synchronization reliability and gives the solutions to its application in smart substation.