What happens to an encrypted file when it is transferred across a network using SMB?

When a file is encrypted and transferred over a network using Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, the encryption typically remains intact during the transition. Therefore, the correct understanding is that the encryption carries over to the new location.

This means that when an encrypted file is moved or copied to another location using SMB, the file maintains its encrypted state, allowing it to be protected during the transfer. If the encryption were to be removed or unencrypted upon moving the file, it would pose a significant security risk, as any unauthorized users could access the sensitive information contained in the file once it reaches the new location. The integrity of encryption must be preserved throughout the file's lifecycle, especially when it is being transmitted across potentially unsecured networks.

In contrast, if it were true that an encrypted file cannot be moved using SMB, it would severely limit the practical use of encryption in network environments, which is not the case. Additionally, the option suggesting that encryption inherits from the new location implies a misunderstanding of how encryption works—encryption depends on the file itself and not on the characteristics of the new location.