What is a key difference between Telnet and SSH for remote CLI connections?

The key difference between Telnet and SSH for remote Command-Line Interface (CLI) connections lies in their approach to data security. Telnet is inherently unsecured, meaning that data, including sensitive information like usernames and passwords, is transmitted in plain text over the network. This lack of encryption makes it vulnerable to various types of attacks, such as eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks.

In contrast, SSH (Secure Shell) implements strong encryption methods to protect the data transmitted between the client and server. This encryption safeguards not only the login credentials but also the entire session, ensuring confidentiality and integrity. As a result, SSH is widely adopted for secure communications in network management and server access.

The distinction in the security provided by these two protocols is crucial for any network professional, as it influences the choice between them based on the need for secure data transmission.