What are RSS feeds?

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication and is a useful tool for keeping yourself up-to-date on your favorite web sites. RSS uses an XML code to scan a web site for new information, and then it broadcasts updates of that information to all subscribers through a feed.

Typically, RSS feeds are used with news sites or blogs, but any web site can use them to broadcast information. Updates include a headline and a brief summary or the lead-in to the story. You just click a link for more.

To receive RSS feeds, you need a feed reader, called an aggregator. Many aggregators are available online, often free, so you should be able to find one that appeals to you. You can find some RSS readers here. You can also read RSS feeds on a PDA or cell phone.

To add a web site to your aggregator you can click on an RSS feed link. It will immediately add that feed to your aggregator. Or else, depending on your aggregator, you may need to copy and paste the URL of the feed into the program.

By either method, the feed will be there as soon as you've added it. If you don't want to receive anymore updates, just delete the feed or URL from your aggregator.

RSS feeds are superior to newsletter updates because you don't have to wait for the newsletter; the updates are instantaneous. They won’t be held up by a spam filter either.

You can use your RSS feeds daily and have up-to-the-minute news and save time reading only those updates that interest you.

Click the icon below to access the feed.