What is an Environment Variable?
Environment Variable refers to a variable that stores values used by the operating system (OS) and can be accessed by all programs running on the computer.
In Simple Terms
An environment variable is like a shared storage space for information that can be used by any program running on the computer.
Detailed Explanation
- What is an OS?
- The OS (Operating System) is the core software that makes your computer work. It manages hardware and software resources.
- What is a Variable?
- A variable is a place where you can store a value, like a labeled box that holds information.
- What is an Environment Variable?
- It’s a type of variable that the OS uses to store and share information with all programs. This information can include paths, system settings, or user preferences.
- Example
- Imagine your computer has a variable called
COMPUTERNAMEwhich holds the name of your computer. If the value isPIYOTA-PC, every program running on your computer can access this value.
- Imagine your computer has a variable called
- Changing Environment Variables
- You can change environment variables in two ways:
- System-Wide Changes: These changes affect all programs and stay in place until you change them again.
- Program-Specific Changes: These changes affect only the specific program that makes the change. Other programs will not see this change.
- You can change environment variables in two ways:
Summary
When you hear “environment variable,” think of it as a shared storage space for information that the OS provides to all programs on your computer.