What is RSS?

RSS stands for "Really Simple Syndication." RSS is a new way to publish information online, through "RSS Feeds".

At the heart of the technology is special Web coding, called XML, which displays headlines and information on another page or "RSS Reader". This is a simple way to syndicate content.

Anyone can use the RSS codes and with the appropriate web software, display the information automatically.

What Do you Need to Receive RSS Feeds?

First, you need a "feed reader". Performing a search for "RSS Feed Readers" in any major online search engine such as Google.com or Yahoo! will produce a slew of software options - many of which are free or at little cost.

Once you've obtained a feed reader, subscribing to an RSS feed is as simple as looking for the appropriate XML code. Most websites that publish an RSS feed will display a tiny orange box or button labeled "RSS" or "XML."

Click the button and your web browser tie epically goes to a page of cryptic code. Just copy the Web "address" or URL of that page and plug it into your feed reader. The software will then automatically retrieve and display that site's latest information.

What RSS is not

RSS is not email, nor is it designed to be a replacement for email. RSS is a supplemental communication channel that can be used to deliver content. Email newsletters have had an increasing problem with spam. Email open rates have plummeted, filtering systems have become increasingly complex and with the complexity and volume even "approved" messages have been unable to get through.