Which type of S3 Object Lock has a fixed expiration time?

In the context of Amazon S3 Object Lock, the option that refers to a fixed expiration time is the Retention Period. This type of lock allows you to configure a specific timeframe during which an object cannot be deleted or modified. When you set a retention period, you designate the duration for which the object will remain locked, meaning that it will automatically become mutable or deletable after that fixed time has elapsed.

This mechanism is particularly useful for compliance purposes, as it helps organizations ensure that data is retained for a predetermined period, adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. The ability to specify an exact retention window allows for clear management of data lifecycle.

In contrast, other types of S3 Object Lock options serve different purposes. For example, a Legal Hold does not have a set expiration and must be removed manually to allow for alterations to an object. Permanent Lock provides indefinite protection against any changes or deletions, effectively locking the object forever. Time-bound Lock is not a standard terminology used in Amazon S3 documentation relating to Object Lock functionality, thereby making it a less accurate choice. Thus, the Retention Period is clearly the correct answer when discussing a lock that has a fixed expiration time.