When building applications, it’s crucial to separate configuration from code. This is where environment variables come into play — they allow you to store configurations outside of your source code, making it easier to manage and deploy your application. Moreover, using environment variables can help prevent accidental exposure of sensitive information such as API keys or database credentials.
In this guide, we will explore what environment variables are, why they matter, and how to work with them effectively in Python. We will cover various methods for setting, retrieving, and managing environment variables while ensuring best practices along the way.
What Are Environment Variables?
Environment variables are dynamic values stored by an operating system that affect running processes within its scope. They serve as a convenient means of configuring software during runtime, allowing developers to customize their programs based on specific environments, platforms, or user preferences.
