Which command is used to format values without changing their characteristics?

The fieldformat command is designed specifically to format the display of field values in Splunk without altering the underlying data itself. This command allows users to apply formatting options such as date formats, numeric formats, and other display attributes, which enhances the visualization of the data without modifying the actual data.

For instance, when you use fieldformat, users can see values presented in a more readable or user-friendly way, which is particularly beneficial when creating dashboards or reports where the visual representation is crucial. This ensures that while the aesthetic presentation may change, the core characteristics and representations of the data remain intact, allowing for accurate analysis and reporting.

In contrast, the other options either manipulate the data directly or are not specifically intended for formatting purposes in the way fieldformat is. Thus, fieldformat stands out as the appropriate choice for maintaining the original characteristics of data while modifying its visual presentation.