How do environment variables work in microservices architecture?

How do environment variables work in microservices architecture?

Environment variables are key-value pairs used to configure applications in microservices. They allow you to manage settings like database connections, API keys, and other configurations without hardcoding them into your application.

Why are environment variables preferred over configuration files?

Environment variables are preferred because they provide better security, allow for easier changes without redeploying, and can be managed separately for different environments (development, testing, production).

Can you give an example of how to set environment variables in a Docker container?

Sure! You can set environment variables in a Docker container using the -e flag in the docker run command, like this: docker run -e MY_VAR=value my_image.

What are some best practices for managing environment variables?

Best practices include using a consistent naming convention, keeping sensitive information out of version control, and using tools like Docker Secrets or HashiCorp Vault for sensitive data.