Deadlock detection is a process used in computer systems to identify situations where two or more processes are unable to proceed because each is waiting for the other to release resources. This can occur in environments where multiple processes compete for limited resources, leading to a standstill. To resolve deadlocks, systems implement algorithms that periodically check for cycles in the resource allocation graph. If a deadlock is detected, the system can take actions such as terminating one of the processes or forcibly releasing resources to restore normal operation.