Software algorithms are step-by-step procedures or formulas used to solve problems or perform tasks in computer programming. They take input data, process it through a series of defined steps, and produce output. Algorithms can be simple, like sorting a list of numbers, or complex, like those used in machine learning. These algorithms are essential for software applications, as they determine how efficiently a program operates. Different types of algorithms, such as search algorithms and sorting algorithms, are designed for specific tasks, optimizing performance and resource usage in various computing environments.