What is a common use of the File Transfer Protocol (FTP)?

• A. To categorize clinical data
• B. To move files over the Internet
• C. To document clinical trial outcomes
• D. To gather feedback from trial participants

Answer: (B)

The correct choice is associated with the primary purpose of the File Transfer Protocol (FTP), which is designed specifically for transferring files between computers over a network, most commonly the Internet. FTP enables users to upload, download, and manage files on remote servers, facilitating the sharing of large datasets or documents that are typically involved in clinical trials or other data-intensive fields.

The utilization of FTP is essential in contexts where efficient data exchange is required, such as moving clinical data from one location to another for analysis or reporting. This capability allows researchers and data managers to ensure that they have the correct and most up-to-date files necessary for their work.

In contrast, the other options address functions that are not directly related to FTP. For instance, categorizing clinical data refers to organizing data into specific classes or groups based on certain criteria, which is more aligned with data management techniques. Documenting clinical trial outcomes involves recording results and finding conclusions drawn from studies, a task more associated with data analysis and reporting tools rather than file transfer. Gathering feedback from trial participants is a process focused on collecting insights and assessments from study subjects, which do not involve FTP as a mechanism for transferring files. Thus, the fundamental function of FTP as a tool for moving files stands out as the most