To improve the ignition stability of internal combustion engines in lean-burn mode，the effects of different ignition methods are analyzed from two perspectives：ignition principles and the coverage range of discharge plasma. The potential of the ignition system in combustion rate control and detonation suppression is discussed，and the development direction of advanced ignition systems is summarized. The analysis results show that the ignition system plays a key role in the combustion control process of internal combustion engines. Advanced ignition technology can ensure the ignition stability of internal combustion engines in lean-burn mode. Increasing ignition energy and ignition coverage can enhance ignition stability，but both will lead to a sharp increase in total ignition energy，requiring higher power for the ignition system，increasing system complexity，and reducing engine economy. Currently，the majority of ignition methods generate plasma ignition of the mixture through gas discharge. By adjusting the characteristics of the discharge plasma，the ignition system can flexibly control the combustion heat release throughout the combustion process in the cylinder.