How to store secret files for runtime access

Last updated: September 19, 2025

If you need to store secret files (such as .pem files) that your application requires at runtime, you can use Porter's environment groups feature.

Using Environment Groups for Secret Files

Environment groups allow you to store files that can be accessed by your applications during runtime. Here's how to set this up:

  1. Create an environment group in your Porter dashboard

  2. Upload your secret file (e.g., secret-key.pem) as an environment file within the group

  3. Configure your application to reference this environment group

Once configured, your application will be able to access the secret file at runtime, making this approach suitable for applications that need access to credential files during execution.

This method ensures your sensitive files are securely stored and accessible to your applications without exposing them in your codebase or build process.