The performance of the spindle system and bearings in a machine tool is largely influenced by the preload applied to bearings. Therefore, it is a very important issue to determine a proper preload in bearings and apply it to bearings for satisfying the performance required in bearings according to its operation conditions. This study performed a review on the preload technologies through classifying these technologies into three categories; a preload configuration technology that properly determines the preload for optimizing the performance of bearings, a preload application technology that applies the determined preload to bearings during the operation of a spindle system as a reliable way, and a preload measurement technology that verifies the preload applied to an actual spindle system.