What component allows Vault to encrypt and decrypt data?

The Key Management Service (KMS) is essential for the encryption and decryption of data in Vault. KMS provides tools and processes for managing cryptographic keys across various systems securely. In this context, Vault integrates with KMS to facilitate its core functionality of encrypting secrets and sensitive data.

Vault relies on KMS to generate, store, and manage the keys used for encryption. By leveraging KMS, Vault can perform operations such as encrypting secrets before they are stored and decrypting them when needed, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure throughout its lifecycle. This integration is crucial because it allows Vault to implement strong encryption practices while maintaining proper key management procedures.

The other options do not specifically address the core functionality of Vault in relation to encryption and decryption. While Encryption as a Service (EaaS) and secrets management systems are relevant to encryption, they do not directly pertain to Vault's key management and encryption operation. A Data Protection Module may refer to components within a security architecture, but it does not denote the specific role of managing encryption keys as KMS does.