What are the differences between environment variables and configuration files in Python?

What are the differences between environment variables and configuration files in Python?

Environment variables are set in the operating system and can be accessed in Python using the os module. Configuration files, on the other hand, are typically stored in a specific format (like JSON, YAML, or INI) and read by the application at runtime.

When should I use environment variables instead of configuration files?

You should use environment variables for sensitive information like API keys or passwords, as they are not stored in the codebase. Configuration files are better for application settings that are not sensitive and may need to be version-controlled.

Can I use both in the same project?

Yes, you can use both. It's common to use environment variables for sensitive data and configuration files for general settings.

What libraries can help manage configuration in Python?

Libraries like configparser, pydantic, and dynaconf can help manage configuration in Python projects.