What is the primary purpose of Telnet?

The primary purpose of Telnet is to provide remote command line access to network devices and systems. It allows a user to connect to remote computers over a network, enabling them to execute commands as if they were physically present at the machine. This capability is particularly useful for network administration, where managing devices like routers and switches requires access to their command-line interface.

Telnet operates over a TCP connection, usually on port 23, and facilitates the execution of commands and the management of devices from a distance. However, it is important to note that Telnet does not encrypt its data, which includes usernames and passwords. This lack of security makes Telnet less favorable compared to secure alternatives, such as SSH (Secure Shell).

Other options do not align with the main functionality of Telnet. For example, while file transfer is a function of protocols like FTP and SFTP, data encryption is a feature associated with secure communications, and protocols like SSH specifically address remote access with encryption. Therefore, the focus of Telnet as a tool is clearly on remote command line access.