Which feature in Vault allows users to generate short-lived credentials?

The ability to generate short-lived credentials in HashiCorp Vault is specifically tied to the concept of Dynamic Secrets. This feature allows Vault to create secrets on-the-fly based on a defined configuration when requested. Unlike static secrets, which are predefined and typically outlive their usefulness, dynamic secrets provide temporary credentials that are automatically revoked after a specified time period or when the client's session ends.

For instance, when a user requests database credentials through a dynamic secrets engine, Vault can generate unique credentials that are valid for a limited duration. This enhances security by minimizing the exposure of credentials, as they are not stored long-term and are specific to the user or application making the request. This approach ensures that even if the credentials are compromised, they would only be valid for a short time, reducing the potential impact of such an event.

The other options do not directly relate to generating short-lived credentials. Secrets Engines provide the framework for managing and storing secrets but do not inherently create short-lived credentials. Access Policies define what users can do within Vault but do not generate secrets. Authentication Methods are used for verifying user identities and do not play a role in the lifecycle of the credentials themselves. Thus, Dynamic Secrets is the feature that encompasses the generation of short-lived credentials in Vault.