What is RSS and how does it work?
What is RSS?
RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication. It refers to files easily read by a computer called XML files that automatically update information.
This information is fetched by a user’s RSS feed reader that converts the files and the latest updates from websites into an easy to read format. An RSS feed takes the headlines, summaries, and update notices, and then links back to articles on your favorite website’s page.
This content is distributed in real time, so that the top results on the RSS feed are always the latest published content for a website.
An RSS feed allows you to create your own customized eZine of the most up-to-date content for the topics and websites you are interested in.
How RSS works
An aggregator is responsible for the convenience of RSS feeds.
The RSS aggregator checks websites for new content automatically. It immediately pulls that content over to your feed reader so you don’t have to go and check each website individually to find new content.
The aggregator even keeps track of what you have and have not read by listing the number of articles or pieces of content for each website you are following that has not been seen. This helps you quickly scan content from the websites that interest you.
Adding Websites to an RSS Feed Reader
More and more, websites are making this process simple for you. When you are on your favorite website, look for a small orange icon with the letters RSS or XML. When you click on that icon, you add that web address or link to your reader. You can also search for a website within your RSS reader and add it to your feed.
The beauty of RSS feeds is they are typically very customizable within your reader or from the website you’re following. For example, you could choose to be updated only on the sports or art section of your local newspaper.
You can also select a specialized Google news alert to be delivered to you via your feed. Set search parameters on Craigslist for something you’re hoping to find, and receive updates that match your search qualifications.
Even with countless ways to receive information these days, the RSS feeder still holds its own as an important way for you to stay updated on what’s important to you.
Customizable to your tastes, an RSS feed ensures you don’t miss or forget the information that is important only to you.