The dynamic recent development of technologies provides more and more new tools, thanks to which it is possible to quickly detect and identify the chemical composition of volatile organic compounds of fungal origin. An ‘electronic nose’ (e−nose) is one of such tools. The Forest Research Institute launched in the period of 2018−2020 the project entitled ‘Forecasting threats to forest ecosystems through the implementation of innovative electronic odor recognition system’. Its aim is to use an electronic nose to detect the odors of fungal pathogens that cause damping−off of seedlings belonging to Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Cylindrocarpon, Phytophthora and Pythium genera as well as pine foils on an example of pine tree lappet caterpillars (Dendrolimus pini L.). In presented paper special attention was paid to the organic compounds of fungal origin. Many authors indicate that a large number of fungi secrete specific organic compounds that can be used to recognize them. The composition of these compounds may, however, differ depending on the conditions in which the organism develops or even on the virulence itself. Similar research made it possible to introduce an e−nose device for general use. They are used, inter alia, at airports to detect dangerous substances, to determine the quality of coffee, or to check food for its suitability for consumption. The aim of this work is to review the basic information on the volatile organic compounds released by fungi, their composition and the possibility of using an electronic nose for their early detection. Paper provides information on: methods used to identify volatile organic compounds, the basic differences between the discussed methods and information on the examples of the use of this technology in various industries, from the food industry, through medicine, to the army.