zbi

ZBI is an acronym that can refer to multiple concepts, depending on the context. In computing, the most widely recognized usage is Zircon Boot Image, a boot image format associated with Google's Fuchsia operating system. The ZBI acts as a binary container used during early boot to convey data to the Zircon kernel and its boot environment. It typically comprises a sequence of items that may include kernel command lines, small configuration data, resource handles, and other boot-time information. The design emphasizes simplicity and extensibility, allowing new item types to be defined as needed without altering the overall structure.

In practice, the ZBI is created during the system build process and read by the early-stage boot loader or kernel loader. Its item-based structure enables the boot software to parse and initialize hardware, set up essential subsystems, and hand control to the main kernel image. The format is documented in developer resources for Fuchsia and related tooling, with a focus on deterministic parsing and reliable boot behavior.

Outside of Zircon and Fuchsia, ZBI can stand for various organizations, products, or projects that adopt the acronym. Because ZBI is not unique to a single standard, its meaning is context-dependent, and clarification is usually required when the term appears in unfamiliar settings. If a specific ZBI is intended, providing sector or organization details can help identify the correct reference.