This article reviews the development and potential of silicon (Si) nanowires (NWs) as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Si NWs, with their unique one-dimensional (1D) morphology, offer enhanced cycling stability and high capacity due to their ability to transform into interconnected active material networks. The review highlights key research areas, including advanced characterization methods, practical anode design considerations, and the formation of NW composite anodes. It also discusses the challenges and future prospects of Si NW-based anodes, such as upscaling, material modification, and the integration of Si NWs into beyond-LIB applications like Li-metal, solid-state, and sodium-ion batteries. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding the fundamental mechanisms of Si NW anodes, optimizing current collector design, and exploring the potential of Si NW composites and coatings to improve performance and commercial viability.This article reviews the development and potential of silicon (Si) nanowires (NWs) as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Si NWs, with their unique one-dimensional (1D) morphology, offer enhanced cycling stability and high capacity due to their ability to transform into interconnected active material networks. The review highlights key research areas, including advanced characterization methods, practical anode design considerations, and the formation of NW composite anodes. It also discusses the challenges and future prospects of Si NW-based anodes, such as upscaling, material modification, and the integration of Si NWs into beyond-LIB applications like Li-metal, solid-state, and sodium-ion batteries. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding the fundamental mechanisms of Si NW anodes, optimizing current collector design, and exploring the potential of Si NW composites and coatings to improve performance and commercial viability.