To manage environment variables and secrets in the Model Context Protocol (MCP), use a combination of secure storage, runtime injection, and access controls. Start by separating configuration data from code, storing environment variables in files or services designed for this purpose. Secrets like API keys or database credentials should never be hardcoded or committed to version control. Instead, use a dedicated secrets manager (e.g., HashiCorp Vault, AWS Secrets Manager) or MCP’s built-in tools to store encrypted values. During deployment, inject these values into the runtime environment or application configuration. This approach ensures sensitive data remains protected and configurable across environments.
In MCP, leverage its native integration with cloud providers or third-party secret management tools. For example, if MCP runs on Kubernetes, use Kubernetes Secrets alongside environment variables or mounted volumes. Define environment variables in MCP’s configuration files or UI, referencing secrets stored externally. If MCP supports role-based access control (RBAC), restrict permissions so only authorized services or users can retrieve secrets. For instance, a training job might need a database password: store the password in AWS Secrets Manager, configure MCP to fetch it using an IAM role, and pass it as an environment variable to the job. Avoid logging or exposing secrets in outputs by masking them in logs and monitoring access.
Follow best practices like rotating secrets regularly and auditing access. Use different secrets for development, staging, and production environments to limit blast radius. For example, prefix secrets with the environment name (e.g., prod_db_password) and configure MCP to select the correct set based on the deployment context. If MCP lacks built-in secret rotation, automate updates via scripts or CI/CD pipelines. Test configurations locally using mock secrets or .env files excluded from Git. Finally, document the process so teams understand how to add or modify secrets securely. By combining MCP’s features with established security practices, you maintain flexibility without compromising safety.