What are some tools for managing environment variables?

What are some tools for managing environment variables?

There are several tools available for managing environment variables, such as dotenv, direnv, and envsubst. Do you want to know more about any specific tool?

Can you explain how dotenv works?

Sure! Dotenv is a zero-dependency module that loads environment variables from a .env file into process.env in Node.js applications. This allows you to keep sensitive information like API keys out of your codebase.

What about direnv? How is it different?

Direnv is a shell extension that loads and unloads environment variables based on the current directory. It automatically sets up the environment when you enter a directory with a .envrc file, making it great for project-specific configurations.

Are there any security concerns with using these tools?

Yes, it's important to ensure that your .env files are not included in version control systems like Git, as they may contain sensitive information. Always use .gitignore to exclude them.