Information retrieval is the process of obtaining information from a large repository, such as a database or the internet. It involves searching for specific data or documents based on user queries, which can include keywords or phrases. The goal is to find relevant information quickly and efficiently. This process is commonly used in search engines like Google and Bing, where algorithms analyze vast amounts of data to deliver the most pertinent results. Information retrieval systems also utilize techniques like indexing and ranking to improve the accuracy and speed of searches, making it easier for users to find what they need.