> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://developer.harness.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://developer.harness.io/open-source/use-harness-open-source/pipelines-1/secrets.md).

# Secrets

Secrets are used to store and manage sensitive information, such as passwords, tokens, and ssh keys. Storing this information in a secret is considered safer than storing it in your configuration file in plain text.

{% hint style="info" %}
Secrets are managed at the project level.
{% endhint %}

## Create a secret <a href="#create-a-secret" id="create-a-secret"></a>

1. Select the **Secrets** view in you project, then select **New Secret**
2. Enter the secret name, value, and optional description, then select **Create Secret**

You will see your secret in the list.

## Use a secret in a pipeline <a href="#use-a-secret-in-a-pipeline" id="use-a-secret-in-a-pipeline"></a>

Reference the secret in a pipeline with `${{ secrets.get("secret_name") }}` expression syntax, for example:

```yaml
kind: pipeline
spec:
  stages:
  - type: ci
    spec:
      steps:
      - name: notify
        type: plugin
        spec:
          name: slack
          inputs:
            webhook: ${{ secrets.get("slack_webhook") }}
```