Variables

Variable Management (VM) is a powerful feature in QIP that allows users to manage two types of variables: common and secured . This functionality simplifies configuration across multiple chains by enabling global access to predefined variables, helping streamline workflows and reduce redundancy.

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Functionality

Variables created within Variable Management are globally available across all chains, which means they can be reused in different processes without redefining them each time. This improves efficiency and ensures consistency throughout the system.

• Common Variables are used for non-sensitive data that needs to be accessed frequently. They help simplify chain creation when static values are needed. For example, if a certain file path or default setting is used often, it can be defined once as a common variable and reused many times. These variables are stored in Consul, a service used for service discovery and configuration management.

• Secured Variables, on the other hand, are designed to store sensitive information such as passwords, API keys, or tokens. These variables are securely stored in Kubernetes (K8s) Secrets, ensuring that confidential data remains protected from unauthorized access. Using secured variables helps maintain compliance with data security standards and best practices.

By separating variables into these two categories, QIP provides both flexibility and security, allowing users to handle both general and sensitive data efficiently.

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User Interface Overview

All variable management tools are located under the Admin Tools Tab, where variables are organized into two distinct sections:

• Common Variables
• Secured Variables

Common Variables

To create a new common variable, users can use the floating action menu located on the right side of the screen. Clicking on "Add Variable" will insert a new row containing the following fields:

• Key: A unique identifier for the variable.
• Value: The actual value assigned to the variable.

In addition to creating variables, users can perform several actions:

• Delete Selected Variables: Remove unwanted or outdated entries.
• Export Selected Variables: Save selected variables for backup or sharing purposes.
• Import Variables: Load previously saved variables into the system.

These features make managing large sets of common variables quick and efficient.

Secured Variables

Creating a secured variable also begins with using the floating action menu on the right. Users should click on "Add Secret", which opens a new window prompting for a mandatory field:

• Secret Name: The name of the secret.

These secrets are automatically encrypted and stored in Kubernetes Secrets, providing a secure way to manage sensitive data without exposing it in logs or UI elements.

Under the secret it is necessary to create a secret variable with the following fields:

• Key: A unique identifier for the variable.
• Value: The actual value assigned to the variable.

This interface ensures that only authorized users can view or modify secured variables, maintaining high levels of data protection.