The MgB₂ wires and tapes have been well developeded during the past 15 years. MgB₂ can be used in liquid hydrogen and low magnetic field, which has broad applicability in the future due to its cheap raw material. In this paper we review the traditional processing of MgB₂ wires and set the stage for further. The method of internal magnesium diffusion is introduced in detail. A pure magnesium rod was placed at the center of copper shealth and niobium or tantalum barrier layer, and the space between magnesium rod and barrier layer was filled with boron powder. We can get the high density MgB₂ layer after heat treatment. Finally, we discussed the key point of fabricating MgB₂ tapes and wires in the future.