Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide a locking mechanism for securing lighting components to each other, particularly a light-emitting diode (LED) or light engine to a heat sink. The locking mechanism comprises: a base component and a retention ring. The base component comprises: a mounting component comprising a lighting component compartment; and an assembly component comprising: an opening through which wires pass, at least two slots or ramps, and at least one bottom ledge. The retention ring further comprises: at least two winged protrusions, each to engage with a slot of the assembly component, at least one top and bottom ledge, and at least one slot.