Disclosed are methods of using nitrogen-containing compounds as corrosion inhibitors. The present method is used to inhibit corrosion of a metal surface in contact with an aqueous system using 2-substituted imidazoles and 2-substituted benzimidazoles, and provides enhanced protection against corrosion of metals in the aqueous system. The method comprises the use of corrosion inhibitors that are generally resistant to halogen attack and provide good corrosion resistance in the presence of oxidizing halogen-based biocides. Formulations comprising 2-substituted imidazoles and 2-substituted benzimidazoles are also disclosed.