Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising antimicrobial agents, capable of combating both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains. Their antibacterial capacity is attributed to multiple mechanisms of action, such as membrane penetration, disruption of cell walls, and interference with intracellular components. AgNPs exhibit synergistic effects when combined with antibiotics or other antibacterial agents, reducing the required dosage and preventing secondary effects. The review highlights the factors affecting the antibacterial and cytotoxic effects of AgNPs, emphasizing their potential as a new class of antibacterial agents. The synthesis methods, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches, are discussed, along with the impact of size, charge, and surface characteristics on their properties. In vitro studies on mammalian cell lines reveal dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, with smaller nanoparticles generally showing higher cytotoxicity. However, the use of 3D models that mimic human tissues provides a more realistic assessment of AgNP exposure and its effects. Overall, AgNPs show significant promise as an alternative to antibiotics, offering a versatile and effective solution for combating bacterial infections.Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising antimicrobial agents, capable of combating both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains. Their antibacterial capacity is attributed to multiple mechanisms of action, such as membrane penetration, disruption of cell walls, and interference with intracellular components. AgNPs exhibit synergistic effects when combined with antibiotics or other antibacterial agents, reducing the required dosage and preventing secondary effects. The review highlights the factors affecting the antibacterial and cytotoxic effects of AgNPs, emphasizing their potential as a new class of antibacterial agents. The synthesis methods, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches, are discussed, along with the impact of size, charge, and surface characteristics on their properties. In vitro studies on mammalian cell lines reveal dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, with smaller nanoparticles generally showing higher cytotoxicity. However, the use of 3D models that mimic human tissues provides a more realistic assessment of AgNP exposure and its effects. Overall, AgNPs show significant promise as an alternative to antibiotics, offering a versatile and effective solution for combating bacterial infections.