Comprehensive and Detailed Step by Step Explanation: PBKDF2 (Password-Based Key Derivation Function 2)strengthens passwords against brute-force attacks. AES (Advanced Encryption Standard)supports variable block and key sizes, making it ideal for secure encryption. RC5,P256, andECDSAare not relevant to password vault requirements. RIPEMDis a hashing algorithm and does not meet the criteria for encryption or brute-force resistance. References: CompTIA CASP+ Exam Objective 2.1: Implement cryptographic technologies. CASP+ Study Guide, 5th Edition, Chapter 9, Cryptographic Tools.