Which protocol is used for secure remote access and configuration of network devices over a command line interface?

Secure Shell (SSH) is the correct choice for providing secure remote access and configuration of network devices over a command line interface. SSH is a cryptographic network protocol that ensures secure data transmission through encryption. This protects against eavesdropping, interception, and other attacks that could compromise the integrity of the connection.

SSH is widely used for securely managing servers and network devices because it authenticates users and encrypts data sent over the network. This enhances security compared to other protocols that either transmit credentials in plain text or provide no encryption at all.

In contrast, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is designed for transferring files, but it lacks security features and does not provide secure remote command line access. Telnet is also a protocol for remote access similar to SSH but transmits data unencrypted, making it vulnerable to attacks. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), while it provides graphical interface access to Windows-based systems, does not focus specifically on command-line interface management of devices.

In summary, SSH is specifically designed for secure command-line management, making it the appropriate choice for secure remote access and configuration of network devices.