The basic trends in the use and principles of formation of multilayer catalyst systems for hydrotreating of crude oil cuts are examined. As a function of the functional application, three fundamental groups of systems are distinguished: with catalyst activity increasing by layers for enhancing hydrodesulfurization and attaining a high degree of treatment of the feedstock to remove sulfur-containing compounds; multifunctional for successive hydrorefining for several quality indexes; with a protective forelayer to provide for favorable hydrodynamic conditions in the reactor and increase the efficiency of hydrotreating.