How to Migrate from Oracle JDK to Azul Java

Assess Workloads: Inventory applications and version needs.
Choose Product: Select Zulu (free) or Zing (premium).
Download & Install: Get the appropriate build from Azul.
Test Compatibility: Verify functionality and performance.
Update Pipelines: Adjust build and deployment scripts.

How to Migrate from Oracle JDK to Azul Java

Migrating from Oracle JDK to Azul Java is a cost-effective and strategic decision for organizations aiming to optimize Java runtime performance while managing expenses.

Azul Java, available through Zulu (open-source) and Zing (premium), offers fully TCK-certified Java runtimes compatible with OpenJDK standards. This guide provides an expanded and detailed step-by-step process to ensure a seamless and efficient migration.

1. Assess Current Java Workloads

A thorough understanding of existing Java workloads and configurations is crucial before migrating.

Key Steps:

Inventory Applications: Identify all applications currently running on Oracle JDK, including their versions, dependencies, and any specific configurations. Documenting this inventory ensures no critical application is overlooked.
Version Compatibility: Check that the Azul Java version you plan to use aligns with the Oracle JDK version being replaced. This ensures smooth functionality without compatibility issues.
Assess Performance Needs: Evaluate whether your workloads require Zing’s advanced features, such as low-latency performance, or Zulu’s open-source capabilities.
Identify Key Stakeholders: To ensure alignment and collaboration during the migration, involve application developers, system administrators, and other stakeholders.

2. Select the Right Azul Java Product

Azul offers two main products—Zulu and Zing—designed to meet various enterprise needs. Understanding the differences is essential to make an informed choice.

Zulu (Open Source):

Fully open-source, cost-free, and TCK-certified.
Ideal for standard Java applications that do not require specialized performance optimizations.
Recommended for cost-conscious organizations seeking a reliable and compatible Java runtime.

Zing (Premium):

A high-performance JVM designed for demanding applications with stringent low-latency and high-throughput requirements.
The Continuous Concurrent Compacting Collector (C4) is featured, which virtually eliminates garbage collection pauses.
Ideal for industries like finance, online gaming, telecommunications, and big data analytics.

3. Download and Install Azul Java

Downloading and installing Azul Java is straightforward and supports various operating systems and architectures.

Steps for Installation:

Download: Visit the Azul website and select the appropriate build for your platform (Zulu or Zing).
- Please choose the correct version for your operating system (Windows, Linux, macOS) and architecture (x86, ARM, etc.).
Install:
- Linux: Extract the downloaded tar.gz file and update the PATH and JAVA_HOME environment variables to point to the installation directory.
- Windows: Use the MSI installer to guide installation, ensuring all necessary environment variables are updated.
- macOS: Use the DMG package or tar.gz file to install Azul Java and update the environment variables accordingly.
Configure JAVA_HOME: To ensure compatibility with your applications and build tools, set the JAVA_HOME variable to the Azul Java installation directory.
Verify Installation: Run java -version in the command line to confirm Azul Java is correctly installed and operational.

4. Test Compatibility with Existing Applications

Testing is essential to ensure that all applications function seamlessly after switching to Azul Java.

Testing Steps:

Unit Tests: Execute existing unit tests to verify the basic functionality of each application.
Integration Tests: Ensure the application integrates correctly with external systems such as databases, APIs, and third-party services.
Performance Benchmarks: Compare key performance metrics, such as response times and resource usage, between Oracle JDK and Azul Java. Validate that Azul Java meets or exceeds performance expectations.
Address Compatibility Issues: Troubleshoot and resolve issues such as deprecated APIs or mismatched library dependencies.
Regression Testing: Conduct end-to-end regression tests to confirm that all business-critical workflows remain intact.

5. Update Build and Deployment Pipelines

Updating build and deployment pipelines ensures your development processes align with the new runtime environment.

Build Configuration:

Update build tools like Maven, Gradle, or Ant to use Azul Java as the default JDK.
Verify that all dependencies, plugins, and libraries are compatible with the Azul Java version.
Test build scripts to ensure they function correctly with Azul Java.

Deployment:

Modify deployment scripts to reference the updated JAVA_HOME variable pointing to Azul Java.
Test deployment workflows in a staging environment to identify and resolve potential issues before rolling out to production.
Document the updated deployment process for future reference and team training.

6. Monitor Performance Post-Migration

Monitoring application performance after migration is critical to ensuring long-term success.

Monitoring Steps:

Collect Metrics: Use tools like JConsole, VisualVM, or third-party monitoring solutions to gather metrics such as CPU usage, memory consumption, and thread activity.
Analyze Garbage Collection: For Zing users, analyze garbage collection performance to confirm reduced latency and improved throughput.
Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Monitor KPIs specific to your business, such as transaction response times, user satisfaction scores, or system uptime.
Incorporate Feedback: Gather feedback from developers, system administrators, and end-users to identify areas for further optimization.
Plan Iterative Improvements: Based on monitoring data, refine configurations and optimize performance over time.

7. Leverage Azul’s Support Services

Azul provides a range of support options to assist organizations during and after the migration process.

Support Features:

Migration Assistance: Access expert guidance from Azul’s support team to address challenges and ensure a smooth transition.
Long-Term Support (LTS): This service provides updates and security patches for older Java versions, reducing risks and maintaining stability.
Performance Tuning: Leverage Azul’s expertise to fine-tune Java runtimes for maximum efficiency and reliability.
Documentation and Resources: To empower your team, use comprehensive resources, such as user guides, FAQs, and best practices.

Benefits of Migrating to Azul Java

Significant Cost Savings: Zulu eliminates licensing fees, while Zing offers predictable and competitive pricing models.
Enhanced Performance: Zing’s advanced garbage collection mechanisms minimize latency, ensuring smoother application performance.
Open-Source Compliance: Fully TCK-certified, guaranteeing compatibility with industry-standard Java specifications.
Flexibility and Scalability: Offers options for both standard and high-performance needs, catering to diverse enterprise requirements.
Sustainability: Energy-efficient JVM designs contribute to reduced resource consumption and greener IT operations.

FAQ: How to Migrate from Oracle JDK to Azul Java

What is the first step in migrating to Azul Java?
Begin by assessing your current Java workloads, applications, and dependencies to ensure compatibility.

Which Azul product should I choose, Zulu or Zing?
Choose Zulu for open-source and cost-free needs and Zing for low-latency, high-performance applications.

Where can I download Azul Java?
Visit the Azul website to download the appropriate version of Zulu or Zing for your operating system.

How do I install Azul Java on Linux?
Extract the tar.gz file, update the PATH and JAVA_HOME environment variables, and verify with java -version.

How do I verify application compatibility with Azul Java?
Run unit and integration tests, compare performance benchmarks, and resolve any compatibility issues.

What changes are needed in building pipelines?
Update build tools like Maven or Gradle to point to the new JAVA_HOME directory for Azul Java.

Is Azul Java compatible with Oracle JDK applications?
Azul Java is fully TCK-certified and designed to be compatible with Oracle JDK applications.

What tools can I use for performance monitoring?
Use tools like JConsole, VisualVM, or third-party monitoring solutions to track performance metrics.

Does Azul provide migration support?
Yes, Azul offers comprehensive migration assistance through its support services.

Can I use Azul Java for cloud-native applications?
Azul Java supports cloud-native and containerized environments, making it ideal for modern applications.

How do I address garbage collection issues during migration?
For Zing users, the C4 garbage collector minimizes latency. Monitor and adjust settings if needed.

What industries benefit most from Zing?
Industries like finance, gaming, and telecommunications benefit due to Zing’s low latency and high-throughput capabilities.

Are there any licensing fees for Zulu?
No, Zulu is completely free for commercial and non-commercial use.

How does Zing differ from Zulu?
Zing offers advanced performance features like the C4 garbage collector, making it ideal for demanding workloads.

What should I monitor post-migration?
Track application performance, garbage collection metrics, and user feedback to ensure the migration’s success.

Author

Fredrik Filipsson

Fredrik Filipsson brings two decades of Oracle license management experience, including a nine-year tenure at Oracle and 11 years in Oracle license consulting. His expertise extends across leading IT corporations like IBM, enriching his profile with a broad spectrum of software and cloud projects. Filipsson's proficiency encompasses IBM, SAP, Microsoft, and Salesforce platforms, alongside significant involvement in Microsoft Copilot and AI initiatives, improving organizational efficiency.
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