Used as a protecting group reagent in organic synthesis, particularly for alcohols and phenols, enabling selective reactions in complex molecules. It is also employed in the preparation of silyl ethers, which are intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and natural products. Additionally, it serves as a catalyst or promoter in various chemical transformations, including glycosylation and esterification reactions. Its strong silylating properties make it valuable in modifying functional groups to enhance stability or reactivity during multi-step synthetic processes.