Explain the env() notation in parameters for defaulting env vars value

[Taluu]

Since I think Symfony 3.4, we can do the following to make a default value for an env var if it's not set :

parameters:
  env(SECRET): foo

It is mentionned all throughout the docs (example here, here and here), but it is never detailed what it is and what's the point of using it.

Maybe adding a section or a short explanation of what it is could be beneficial before using it as it is currently used ?

I'm afraid I lack the writing skills to make a proper explanation on that to contribute efficiently on that issue. :/

[ro0NL]

it should be noted this is the only way to have a null default, thus env(SOME): ~

[javiereguiluz]

@Taluu how would you explain this using your own words? If you add a comment with that ... I can update the docs based on that. Thanks!

[Taluu]

How about something in the lines of "You can set a default value for an environment variable using this syntax [...]", and maybe a note stating as @ro0NL said that this is the only way to have a null default value ?

This should be before it is used in the docs though.

[ro0NL]

the crucial decision part is related to responsibility of the default value.

Is the app "on itself" responsible? Then env(SOME): default is the way to go

Is the environment responsible? Then put it in .env.$env (assuming this is loaded thru Dotenv)

Or, is it a requirement to configure a real env? Thus explicit value selection, then it's infrastructure related. The app will crash if the env is missing.

[ro0NL]

one way to put this in terms of software terminology is: system defaults vs user defaults

[carsonbot]

Thank you for this issue.
There has not been a lot of activity here for a while. Has this been resolved?

[carsonbot]

Friendly ping? Should this still be open? I will close if I don't hear anything.