What is SSH (Secure Shell) primarily used for?

SSH, or Secure Shell, is primarily used to provide a secure communication channel over an unsecured network. This protocol allows users to access and manage devices and servers securely through an encrypted connection. The encryption protects the data being transmitted between the client and the server, preventing eavesdropping, tampering, or man-in-the-middle attacks.

SSH is particularly valuable in networking and system administration tasks, such as remote login and command execution, due to its ability to secure such interactions. It also supports various security features, including user authentication methods like passwords and public keys, further enhancing the security of remote communications.

While the other choices mention important aspects of information security, they do not accurately describe the primary function of SSH. Encrypting files for secure storage pertains more to file security solutions rather than a communication protocol. Managing local network resources generally involves tools and protocols focused on resource allocation and network management, rather than the secure transmission of data. Performing data backups relates to the process of creating copies of data for recovery purposes and does not directly correlate with SSH's primary purpose.