What allows users to have a comprehensive history of changes made to a file?

A version control system is designed specifically to track and manage changes to files over time. It maintains a comprehensive history of modifications, including who made each change, what changes were made, and when they occurred. This capability allows users to revert to previous versions of files, compare different versions, and understand the evolution of the code or data.

Having a history of changes is especially vital in collaborative environments, where multiple users may edit the same file. The version control system efficiently records all adjustments, ensuring that contributions from various individuals can be integrated seamlessly while providing the ability to trace back any history if needed.

Other options, while useful in various contexts, do not provide the same level of detailed tracking and management of file changes. Regular backups preserve the state of files at specific points in time but do not maintain an ongoing history of modifications. Automated error correction software focuses on identifying and fixing errors without providing a record of historical changes. Collaborative coding platforms facilitate teamwork but rely on the underlying version control mechanisms to manage changes effectively.