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HomeCybersecurity 101
What's an Algorithm?

The Ultimate Guide to Algorithms

Written by: Lizzie Danielson

Published: May 21, 2025

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An algorithm can be found in nearly every aspect of modern technology, silently shaping the way we interact with the internet. But what's an algorithm, and why does it play such an essential role in our daily lives? Whether you're Googling a restaurant review, unlocking your phone with facial recognition, or simply scrolling through social media, algorithms are working hard behind the scenes. 

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about algorithms, their different types in computing, and how they affect the average internet user.

What's an algorithm?

At its simplest, an algorithm is a set of instructions designed to carry out a specific task or solve a problem. Think of it as a recipe for baking a cake or a map guiding you to a destination. Algorithms are the foundation for how computers perform calculations, process data, and deliver solutions.  

Real-world examples of algorithms at work include:

  • When you search for something online, search algorithms sift through massive amounts of data to give you the most relevant results. 

  • When Netflix recommends shows, an algorithm analyzes your viewing habits. 

  • Even traffic light systems use algorithms to manage traffic flow efficiently. 

While they may often operate behind the scenes, algorithms hold the key to streamlining tasks and improving decision-making.

The different types of algorithms in computing

Algorithms come in a variety of forms, each designed for specific applications. Here are some of the most common types you might encounter in the realm of computing:

Search algorithms 

Search algorithms power tools like Google. They take your input (keywords or phrases) and use sophisticated computations to retrieve the most relevant data. 

Enter "best pizza near me" into a search engine, and within milliseconds, the algorithm scans its database and delivers options ranked by relevance based on your location and preferences.

Sorting algorithms 

These algorithms organize data, enabling efficient searches and analysis, whether it’s arranging files by date or sorting numbers in ascending order. The quick sort and merge sort are popular sorting techniques.  

Every time you arrange photos by date on your smartphone, a sorting algorithm is at work. 

Encryption algorithms 

Encryption algorithms secure sensitive information by converting it into unreadable formats unless you have the proper "key" to decode it. 

Online bank transactions or messages sent on WhatsApp are encrypted, ensuring that unauthorized users can't access private information. 

Machine learning algorithms 

These adapt and improve from data over time. Supervised learning algorithms train on labeled datasets to make predictions, while unsupervised algorithms find hidden patterns without labels.  

Spotify's "Discover Weekly" playlist is powered by machine learning algorithms, which predict what music you'll love based on your listening habits. 

Facial recognition algorithms 

Facial recognition systems use algorithms to analyze features and map them to a photo database. Face ID on your iPhone employs these algorithms to unlock your phone securely. 

Backtracking and dynamic programming algorithms 

These are problem-solving algorithms that divide tasks into smaller, manageable components. Backtracking tries different solutions step by step, while dynamic programming optimizes by reusing solutions to subproblems. 

Finding the shortest route on GPS apps like Google Maps often involves dynamic programming to calculate the fastest possible path. That’s only scratching the surface. Algorithms like greedy algorithms, randomized algorithms, and brute-force algorithms play integral roles in various industries.

The impact of algorithms on your online experience

Algorithms aren't just for computer scientists. They touch nearly every part of our daily lives. Here are a few areas where you’re likely using them without even realizing it:

Social media algorithms 

Ever noticed that some posts on Instagram or TikTok seem to know exactly what you're interested in? Social media platforms use algorithms to determine what content appears on your feed. They analyze your interactions, such as likes, shares, comments, and views to prioritize what they think you'd enjoy most. 

These algorithms intentionally keep you engaged, sometimes creating addictive experiences or skewing your view of the world by showing content that aligns with your preferences. 

E-Commerce recommendations 

Amazon and other online retailers use algorithms to generate personalized shopping recommendations. Once you're browsing a product, you’ll often see a "Customers who bought this also bought" section, courtesy of an algorithm designed to increase sales. 

Video streaming platforms 

Have you found yourself binge-watching shows on Netflix after clicking "Play Next"? Streaming services rely on sophisticated recommendation algorithms to keep you watching.

Online ads

The ads you see online aren’t random. Behind every pop-up or banner, algorithms are tracking your browsing habits and purchasing patterns to tailor advertisements. This has raised debates about privacy and how much data companies should collect.

Fitness apps

Workout recommendations and calorie-tracking tools employ algorithms to offer personalized health insights.

Why learning about algorithms matters

Understanding algorithms ensures you're better equipped to:

  • Be aware of their influence: Algorithms shape your online experiences. Recognizing how they work allows you to detect biases or understand their impact.

  • Leverage technology effectively: Knowing the basics of algorithms can help you make smarter tech-related decisions, whether in business or personal life.

  • Question transparency: Stay aware of the ethics behind algorithmic decisions, especially with AI and machine learning.

Algorithms might seem abstract, but they play a powerful role in both our personal and professional lives. Understanding how they work gives you the insight to navigate the digital world with confidence.



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