Methods for producing and focusing of energetic X‐ray beams are described. From point view of high power operation, lasing conditions and scalability of capillary discharge laser are discussed. Focusing of lasers from pulse power driven plasma is demonstrated using a Wolter mirror. A new scheme for making an intense point‐like radiation source is proposed for X‐ray manipulation experiments. Based on recent experimental results, prospects and future research plans for intense radiation sources and focusing schemes are presented. © 2004 American Institute of Physics