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Environment Variables

Configure environment variables that will be passed to your container at runtime. Environment variables are key-value pairs that provide configuration settings, API keys, database connections, and other runtime parameters to your containerized applications.

What are Environment Variables?​

Environment variables are dynamic values that can affect the way running processes behave in your container. They provide a way to:

  • Configure Applications: Pass configuration settings without modifying code
  • Store Credentials: Provide API keys, database passwords, and other sensitive information
  • Set Runtime Parameters: Control application behavior based on deployment environment
  • Enable Feature Flags: Toggle application features on or off

Best Practices​

Security Considerations​

  • Use Descriptive Names: Make variable purposes clear through naming
  • Avoid Hardcoding: Use environment variables instead of hardcoded values in your application

Configuration Management​

  • Group Related Variables: Use prefixes to organize related configuration (e.g., DB_*, SMTP_*)
  • Provide Defaults: Have sensible defaults in your application when variables are optional
  • Validate Values: Implement validation in your application for critical environment variables