API Environment Variables | Azure API Policy | Named Values
Named Values in Azure API Management allow users to store and manage key-value pairs that can be referenced in various policies and configurations throughout the API management service. They provide a way to centralize and parameterize settings, making it easier to update configurations without modifying individual policies or settings across multiple places.
Key features of Named Values include:
1. *Centralized Configuration:*
Named Values provide a centralized location to store configuration settings, such as connection strings, URLs, API keys, or any other values used across policies and configurations.
2. *Reference in Policies:*
Users can reference Named Values within policies by using expressions, making it possible to dynamically configure policies without hardcoding values. This enhances flexibility and maintainability.
3. *Scope and Visibility:*
Named Values can be scoped at different levels, including the entire API management service, an API, an operation, or even specific products. This allows for fine-grained control over where a Named Value is accessible.
4. *Secrets and Encrypted Values:*
Users can mark Named Values as secrets, ensuring that sensitive information is encrypted at rest. This adds an extra layer of security when dealing with sensitive data.
5. *Dynamic Updates:*
Changes to Named Values take effect immediately, making it easy to update configurations without the need to redeploy APIs or modify policies. This is particularly useful for scenarios where frequent updates are required.
6. *Versioning:*
Named Values support versioning, allowing users to maintain a history of changes. This can be beneficial for auditing purposes and tracking modifications over time.
7. *External Integration:*
Named Values can be integrated with Azure Key Vault for enhanced security when dealing with sensitive information. This integration allows users to manage secrets in a dedicated key vault and reference them in Named Values.
In summary, Named Values in Azure API Management provide a convenient and centralized way to manage configuration settings, making it easier to maintain, update, and parameterize policies and configurations within the API management service.