# Override the API endpoint for local testing REACT_APP_API_URL=http://localhost:4000
The pattern looks like this: .env.[mode].[local] .env.development.local
require('dotenv-flow').config();
: When working with third-party services like OpenAI, you can store your personal OPENAI_API_KEY here so it doesn't leak into the repository. # Override the API endpoint for local testing
To understand this file, you have to look at its name in three parts: This guide explains its purpose, precedence, and best
In modern web development (specifically within React, Node.js, and Vue ecosystems), managing environment variables is critical for security and deployment flexibility. The file .env.development.local plays a specific, hierarchical role in the configuration chain. This guide explains its purpose, precedence, and best practices.
The .env.development.local file is used to store and sensitive secrets for your local development environment. It is specifically designed to be ignored by version control (Git) so that personal API keys or local database passwords aren't shared with other developers. Suggested Content for .env.development.local