Peroxides are widely used in the field of water treatment, and have good removal effects on heavy metal ions, harmful bacteria and difficult to degrade organic matter in water bodies. Their research and development and popularization have become highly concerned topics in the field of environmental protection. Taking hydrogen peroxide as an example, this paper reviewed the mechanism of action of different activation modes of hydrogen peroxide in advanced oxidation in the water treatment process and its application research progress, and focused on ways to improve the application efficiency of hydrogen peroxide water treatment technology, from two aspects: activation of hydrogen peroxide and reduction of hydrogen peroxide consumption. The research and application of hydrogen peroxide catalyst activation, energy activation, combined use of various peroxides, photocatalysis and electrocatalysis of hydrogen peroxide in water treatment were discussed. Based on the current research, it is found that there is great research potential for new activation methods of peroxides. On this basis, this paper looks forward to expanding and accelerating the application and research of new peroxides in the field of water treatment and reducing the influence of peroxides on catalysts and stability in the system.