What is RSS?

What is RSS?

RSS (Rich Site Summary) is a format for delivering regularly changing web content. Many news-related sites, weblogs and other online publishers syndicate their content as an RSS Feed to whoever wants it.

An RSS document, which is called a “feed,” “web feed,” or “channel,” contains either a summary of content from an associated web site or the full text. RSS makes it possible for people to keep up with their favorite web sites in an automated manner that’s easier than checking them manually.

Why should I use RSS?

RSS solves a problem for people who regularly use the web. It allows you to easily stay informed by retrieving the latest content from the sites you are interested in. You save time by not needing to visit each site individually. You ensure your privacy, by not needing to join each site’s email newsletter.

How do I read an RSS feed?

RSS content can be read using software called a “feed reader” or an “aggregator.” The user subscribes to a feed by entering the feed’s link into the reader or by clicking an RSS icon in a browser that initiates the subscription process. The reader checks the user’s subscribed feeds regularly for new content, downloading any updates that it finds.

List of Feed Readers:

Web based:

• Bloglines
• Google Reader
• Google News, an automated aggregator
• Netvibes
• NewsIsFree
• Rojo.com

Feed Reader Software:

• Mozilla Thunderbird (cross-platform)
• Microsoft Office Outlook (Windows)
• NewsFire (Mac OS)
• RSSOwl (cross-platform)
• Sage, a Firefox extension (cross-platform)
• FeedDemon (Windows)
• FeedGhost (Windows)

I would recommend FeedDemon for the feedreader software and Google Reader for the web based readers. Do remember to Subscribe to Siteguide as well.