Drum brakes are a type of braking system commonly used in vehicles. They consist of a cylindrical drum that rotates with the wheel and brake shoes that press against the inner surface of the drum to create friction. This friction slows down or stops the vehicle when the driver presses the brake pedal. The design of drum brakes allows for effective braking, especially in older vehicles and some modern applications. They are generally less expensive to manufacture than disc brakes and can provide strong stopping power. However, they may be more prone to overheating and wear over time, requiring regular maintenance.