configuration

Separate Docker Compose configuration from sensitive values

A clean deployment begins by classifying values before they become an unreviewed environment block.

Classify every value

Hostnames, ports, feature flags, and deployment modes are configuration. Passwords, API tokens, certificates, and private keys require a more deliberate access boundary. Do not decide by filename alone.

Keep precedence visible

Compose can read variables from multiple places. Before deployment, render the final configuration and confirm which values the application will actually receive.

Grant sensitive values deliberately

Use a supported secret mechanism when the application can read it, and limit access to only the services that need the value. The application’s upstream documentation decides the final file path and integration pattern.