What is the main characteristic of the CIFS protocol?

The choice highlighting that CIFS enables reading and writing data across a network is correct because the Common Internet File System (CIFS) is specifically designed as a network file sharing protocol. It allows applications on a computer to read and write to files and request services from server programs in a computer network. CIFS operates over TCP/IP and allows for file and printer sharing between different operating systems, facilitating cross-platform interactions, particularly within networked environments.

CIFS is widely used to enable users to connect to shared resources and manage files remotely, which is integral for networked systems, especially in enterprise environments. Its capability of managing files remotely is essential for seamless user experience in accessing data from various locations and devices.

The other choices do not accurately describe CIFS's capabilities. While CIFS is indeed more prevalent in Windows environments, it is not limited to them, invalidating the first option. The second choice concerning GUI management does not align with what CIFS is fundamentally designed to do, as it is primarily focused on network communication rather than user interface management. Lastly, describing CIFS as merely a command-line interface for filesystem management overlooks its broader networking functionality, which extends far beyond command-line operations.