What is the primary purpose of the SSH credential in ServiceNow Discovery?

The primary purpose of the SSH credential in ServiceNow Discovery is to facilitate the discovery of Unix/Linux devices. SSH, or Secure Shell, is a protocol used to securely connect to remote computer systems over a network. It enables Discovery to access and gather data from Unix/Linux servers and devices, which is essential for building an accurate Configuration Management Database (CMDB).

When ServiceNow Discovery runs a scan to identify devices on the network, SSH credentials allow it to log into these Unix/Linux devices and retrieve vital information such as system configuration, installed software, and hardware details. This bridges the gap between the network and the asset management process, ensuring that all relevant data regarding these devices is captured effectively.

This functionality is crucial for organizations that rely on a mixed environment of both Windows and Unix/Linux systems, as it ensures comprehensive visibility and management of all IT assets.