Searching algorithms are methods used to find specific data within a collection, such as a list or database. They help locate items efficiently, whether it's a number in a sorted array or a name in a contact list. Common searching algorithms include linear search and binary search, each with its own advantages depending on the data structure. Linear search checks each element one by one, making it simple but slow for large datasets. In contrast, binary search requires sorted data and divides the search space in half with each step, making it much faster for larger collections.