7.10. Environment Variables and Secrets

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is an environment variable?

   Hint

   Think about how configuration values can be stored.

2. 2.

   Which command can you use to set an environment variable in Unix?

   Hint

   Look for the command that starts with 'export'.

3. 3.

   What does an environment variable do?

   • Stores sensitive data
   • Configures program behavior
   • Both A and B

   Hint

   Think about what the term 'environment' relates to.

4. 4.

   True or False: A .env file should be publicly available to everyone.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the implications of giving access.

5. 5.

   You are developing an application that will be deployed in multiple environments (development, testing, production). Describe how you would manage sensitive information for each environment, providing specific tools and practices.

   Hint

   Consider different needs for each environment regarding security and flexibility.

6. 6.

   Identify three common practices to avoid when dealing with secrets in coding, and explain why each is a problem.

   Hint

   Reflect on the biggest security risks associated with mismanagement.