Algorithms for lattice QCD: progress and challenges

The development of improved algorithms for QCD on the lattice has enabled us to do calculations at small quark masses and get control over the chiral extrapolation. Also finer lattices have become possible, however, a severe slowing down associated with the topology of the gauge fields has been observed. This may prevent simulations of lattices fine enough for controlling the continuum extrapolation. This conference contribution introduces the basic concepts behind contemporary lattice algorithms, the current knowledge about their slowing down towards the continuum and its consequences for future lattice simulations.