What is the primary benefit of using a version control system?

The primary benefit of using a version control system lies in its ability to track changes made to code and restore previous versions as needed. This function is crucial for managing the development process, especially when multiple developers are collaborating on a project. By keeping a detailed history of changes, a version control system allows developers to understand what modifications have been made over time and by whom.

This tracking capability empowers teams to identify when specific changes caused issues, enabling them to revert to a stable version of the codebase quickly. Additionally, it ensures that the development process is organized, allowing for better collaboration and coordination among team members.

In contrast, automating code compilation, enhancing performance, and automating deployment processes are significant aspects of software development, but they do not address the fundamental purpose of a version control system, which is focused on change management and historical tracking. Thus, while those aspects may support and improve the overall workflow, they do not encapsulate the core benefit of version control.