This chapter presents the physical principles and applications of material machining with laser beams. First of all, it is necessary to understand the generation and characterization of laser radiation. Following the introduction of various laser beam sources, design principles of laser systems are introduced. The focus here is on methods and components for beam shaping and beam guidance. It is shown that almost any beam guidance is possible using optical fibers. This provides the basis for presenting and discussing different laser technologies. Important features of cutting, joining and surface treatment are highlighted. In addition to productivity, the quality of the surface boundary zone is important for evaluating laser processes. Process combinations are also presented in which laser energy is used to assist other manufacturing processes. These include laser-assisted turning and milling, shear cutting and selected sheet metal forming processes. The chapter concludes with a comprehensive collection of application examples.