The article reviews the production, applications, and future potential of microbial biosurfactants. Biosurfactants are surface-active compounds synthesized by microorganisms, classified based on molecular weight, physico-chemical properties, and mode of action. Low-molecular-weight biosurfactants reduce surface and interfacial tensions, while high-molecular-weight bioemulsifiers stabilize oil-in-water emulsions. These compounds are attracting interest due to their advantages over synthetic surfactants in various fields, including environmental, food, and biomedical applications. However, their large-scale production is currently limited by high costs and limited understanding of their interactions with cells and the environment. The paper discusses current knowledge, recent advances, and biotechnological strategies to improve production processes and explore future potential.The article reviews the production, applications, and future potential of microbial biosurfactants. Biosurfactants are surface-active compounds synthesized by microorganisms, classified based on molecular weight, physico-chemical properties, and mode of action. Low-molecular-weight biosurfactants reduce surface and interfacial tensions, while high-molecular-weight bioemulsifiers stabilize oil-in-water emulsions. These compounds are attracting interest due to their advantages over synthetic surfactants in various fields, including environmental, food, and biomedical applications. However, their large-scale production is currently limited by high costs and limited understanding of their interactions with cells and the environment. The paper discusses current knowledge, recent advances, and biotechnological strategies to improve production processes and explore future potential.