In PHP authorization systems, how do I handle configuration and secrets?

In PHP authorization systems, managing configuration and secrets securely is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of the application. Here’s how you can handle these aspects effectively:

1. Environment Variables: Store sensitive information like API keys, database credentials, etc., in environment variables instead of hardcoding them in your codebase. You can access them in PHP using the `getenv()` function.
2. Configuration Files: Use configuration files that are not publicly accessible (outside the webroot) and load them in your application. Make sure to set proper file permissions to protect these files.
3. Secret Management Services: Utilize secret management services like AWS Secrets Manager, HashiCorp Vault, or Azure Key Vault for dynamic secrets management.
4. Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit to protect against unauthorized access.
5. Regular Audits: Regularly audit your configurations and secrets management strategies to ensure compliance with best practices and to minimize vulnerabilities.

Following these practices will help keep your PHP authorization systems secure and robust.