What is the primary use of SSH in server management?

The primary use of SSH (Secure Shell) in server management is to provide a secure remote command line interface. SSH enables administrators to log in to remote servers securely and execute commands as if they were sitting in front of the machine. This remote access is encrypted, which ensures that data transmitted over the network is protected from eavesdropping and interception.

This secure method of accessing servers is crucial for managing services, configurations, and applications without needing physical access to the hardware. It allows for a wide range of activities, including file transfers, remote executions of scripts, and securely managing system processes.

The other options listed do not align with the primary purpose of SSH. Implementing firewall settings typically requires specific network configuration tools and does not directly involve SSH. Monitoring server performance usually involves different utilities or software tailored for that purpose, while scheduling automated backups is also handled by specific tools or scripts rather than SSH itself. Thus, the focus of SSH on secure command line access makes it an essential tool in the realm of server management.