What type of security method is utilized to protect the integrity of a file before it is transmitted?

The correct choice is file hashing because this method involves generating a unique fixed-size string of characters (hash) from the data in a file. This hash serves as a fingerprint for the file. When the file is transmitted, the hash can be computed again at the receiving end. By comparing the hash values from both the original and received files, one can verify if the file has been altered during transmission. If the hashes match, it confirms the integrity of the file; if they differ, it indicates that the file may have been tampered with, ensuring that the data remains intact throughout the transmission process.

Access control primarily restricts who can view or modify a file but does not directly protect file integrity. User permissions also relate to who can access or modify files, but they lack the specific function of validating the integrity during transmission. Data archiving involves storing data securely, often for backup purposes, without the focus on maintaining integrity during its transfer. Thus, file hashing is the most relevant method for ensuring file integrity before transmission.