What happens to credentials during the encryption process on the instance?

During the encryption process on the instance, credentials are indeed encrypted with SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). This is crucial for maintaining the security and confidentiality of sensitive information, such as user credentials, during transmission. SSL encrypts the data as it travels over the network, preventing unauthorized access or interception by malicious entities.

Using SSL ensures that the credentials are not vulnerable to eavesdropping or tampering while they are being sent across the network. Encryption is a standard practice for protecting data integrity and privacy in modern web communications, particularly in systems like ServiceNow Discovery, where secure handling of credentials is essential for discovering and managing IT assets effectively.

The other options do not reflect the secure practices employed by the instance. Storing credentials in a text file or logging them in plain text would expose them to risks of unauthorized access, and sending them unencrypted over the network compromises their security entirely. The adherence to SSL for encryption aligns with industry standards for data protection.