Profiling tools are software applications designed to analyze the performance of programs and systems. They help developers identify bottlenecks, memory usage, and execution time, allowing for optimization and improved efficiency. Common profiling tools include gprof, Valgrind, and Visual Studio Profiler, each offering unique features for different programming environments. These tools can provide insights into how code behaves during execution, helping to pinpoint areas that may need improvement. By using profiling tools, developers can enhance the overall performance of their applications, leading to faster and more responsive software for users.