> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.wcstudio.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Understanding store environments

# 🌍 Understanding Store Environments

In WC Studio, every store you create can run in different **environments** — giving you complete flexibility over how you build, test, and deploy your eCommerce experience.

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## 📌 What is a Store Environment?

A **store environment** is a separate version of your store used for different purposes — such as development, testing, or production. WC Studio allows you to manage your store’s environments seamlessly without needing third-party tools.

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## 🧩 Available Environment Types

### ✅ Live Environment

* This is your **customer-facing**, fully functional store.
* All orders, payments, and customer interactions happen here.
* Designed for **speed, security, and performance**.

### 🛠 Development Environment

* Used for **building or testing new features**, layouts, or code customizations.
* You can safely experiment without affecting your live store.
* Ideal for **developers or staging plugin/theme compatibility**.

### 🧪 Staging Environment

* A clone of your live store used for **pre-launch testing**.
* Helps verify updates, plugin changes, or content modifications before they go live.
* Supports **QA teams or last-minute reviews**.

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## 🧭 Switching Between Environments

📍 Go to: `WC Studio → Dashboard → Environment Filter`

1. Use the **Environment Filter dropdown** at the top of your dashboard.
2. Select:
   * `Live`
   * `Staging`
   * `Development`

✅ The store list and statistics will update based on your selection.

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## 💡 Best Practices

* Always test **major changes** (e.g., plugin updates, checkout changes) in a **Staging** environment first.
* Use **Development** for ongoing experiments, custom features, or plugin trials.
* Keep your **Live** environment clean, updated, and secure for the best customer experience.