Lock-free algorithms are a type of concurrent programming technique that allows multiple threads to operate on shared data without using traditional locking mechanisms. This approach helps to avoid issues like deadlocks and reduces waiting time, as threads can continue executing even if some threads are blocked. These algorithms ensure that at least one thread will make progress in a finite amount of time, which is crucial for maintaining system responsiveness. Common examples of lock-free data structures include queues, stacks, and lists, which are designed to support safe concurrent access while minimizing contention among threads.