Environment Variables

The video tutorial explains the importance of using environment variables in Node.js applications for customization and security. It covers setting up environment variables for local development and production, using a config file, and employing the ENV-CMD module for cross-platform compatibility. The tutorial includes practical examples, such as setting up a Sendgrid API key, and challenges viewers to apply the concepts by configuring JWT secrets and MongoDB URLs.

Why are environment variables important in Node.js applications?

• They are used for styling the application.

• They reduce the size of the application.

• They increase the speed of the application.

• They help in customizing and securing applications.

What is the purpose of creating a config folder in a Node.js application?

• To store user data.

• To store environment variables separately.

• To store all JavaScript files.

• To store images and assets.

What is the role of the ENV-CMD module in managing environment variables?

• It compresses the application files.

• It speeds up the application.

• It provides a GUI for managing variables.

• It allows cross-platform compatibility for setting environment variables.

How can you ensure that environment variables are not committed to a Git repository?

• By using a different version control system.

• By encrypting them.

• By storing them in a public folder.

• By adding them to a .gitignore file.

What is the benefit of using environment variables for API keys?

• They improve the application's user interface.

• They allow for automatic updates.

• They make the application run faster.

• They prevent sensitive information from being exposed in the codebase.

What should you do after changing an environment variable in a Node.js application?

• Update the operating system.

• Restart the application to apply the changes.

• Clear the browser cache.

• Reinstall Node.js.

In the context of the video, what is the purpose of the SendGrid API key?

• To fetch data from an API.

• To authenticate users.

• To send emails from the application.

• To connect to a database.

What is the first step in the challenge to set up environment variables for JWT secret and MongoDB connection?

• Create the variables and set their values in the .env file.

• Delete the existing database.

• Change the application framework.

• Update the Node.js version.

How can you test if the JWT secret and MongoDB connection string are set correctly?

• By checking the application logs.

• By creating a new user and accessing their profile.

• By running a speed test on the application.

• By updating the application UI.

What is a common convention for naming environment variables?

• Using all lowercase letters.

• Using all uppercase letters with underscores.

• Using camelCase.

• Using numbers only.