What is a common use of SSH besides secure shell access?

Using SSH for file transfer is a common practice due to its secure nature. SSH, or Secure Shell, facilitates an encrypted connection between a client and server, ensuring that data sent over the network remains confidential and protected from eavesdropping. This capability is harnessed by various file transfer protocols such as SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) and SCP (Secure Copy Protocol), which rely on SSH to securely transfer files over insecure networks.

In addition to secure shell access, SSH’s ability to encrypt data makes it a preferred method for transferring sensitive documents, backups, and other data securely between systems. This significantly reduces the risks associated with unencrypted file transfer methods, which can leave data vulnerable to interception.

While other options like remote desktop access, database management, and network analysis have their security protocols in place, they typically do not utilize SSH as their primary method of operation, making file transfer via SSH distinct in its commonality and utility.