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how to access environment variables in github actions

Mary-Kate Olsen
Mary-Kate OlsenOriginal
2024-10-10 11:07:20782browse

This article provides guidance on securely storing and accessing environment variables in GitHub Actions. It outlines best practices, such as using secrets to protect sensitive data and minimizing variable exposure. The article also includes troubles

how to access environment variables in github actions

Can I securely store and access environment variables in GitHub Actions?

Yes, you can securely store and access environment variables in GitHub Actions using the secrets feature. Secrets are encrypted at rest and can be accessed using the secrets context within your workflow. To store a secret, use the set-secret action:

<code>- name: Set secret
  run: |
    echo "API_KEY=${{ secrets.API_KEY }}" >> $GITHUB_ENV</code>

Then, in a subsequent step, access the secret using the env context:

<code>- name: Use secret
  run: |
    curl https://api.example.com/v1 -H "Authorization: Bearer ${{ env.API_KEY }}"</code>

What are the best practices for using environment variables in GitHub Actions?

Follow these best practices to use environment variables effectively in GitHub Actions:

  • Set secrets securely: Store sensitive data in secrets, not environment variables.
  • Minimize exposure: Only expose necessary secrets to the workflow steps that require them.
  • Use specific names: Avoid using generic names for environment variables to prevent potential conflicts.
  • Document usage: Include clear guidance on how to set and use environment variables in the workflow documentation.
  • Validate inputs: Validate the values of input variables to ensure proper functionality.
  • Handle errors gracefully: Handle the potential for missing or invalid environment variables by providing default values or error handling.

How can I troubleshoot issues related to environment variables in GitHub Actions?

1. Check the variable's value: Use the echo action to debug the values stored in an environment variable:

<code>- name: Print environment variable
  run: |
    echo $VARIABLE_NAME</code>

2. Verify the secret's presence: Ensure that the secret is added in the GitHub Actions workflow secrets page.

3. Examine the workflow logs: The workflow logs can provide insights into potential issues with accessing or using environment variables.

4. Check the documentation: Refer to the GitHub Actions documentation for guidance and best practices related to environment variables: https://docs.github.com/en/actions/reference/workflow-syntax-for-github-actions#environment-variables

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