The term refers to the process of acquiring a specific distribution of the Java Development Kit (JDK) provided by Azul Systems, named Zulu. This distribution is a compliant, open-source build of the OpenJDK, often sought by developers and organizations needing a supported Java runtime environment. The act involves obtaining the necessary files to install and utilize Zulu, enabling the development and execution of Java-based applications.
The significance of obtaining this specific JDK lies in several advantages it offers. It is a fully supported and certified build, ensuring compatibility and reliability for enterprise deployments. Furthermore, its availability across various platforms (Windows, Linux, macOS) provides flexibility. Historically, organizations have turned to Zulu as a cost-effective alternative to commercial JDKs while maintaining long-term support and timely security updates. This makes it a valuable tool for managing Java environments efficiently.