Everything You Need to Know About RSS

rss iconWe often came across this icon throughout the web. Perhaps one of the common phrases you encounter is “subscribe to my rss feed” but what is RSS and how does it works? This post explains it all.

What is RSS?
RSS stands for “Really Simple Syndication” and/or “Rich Sites Summary”. The format was created in May 1999 by Ramanathan V. Guha and implemented for the first time on My.Netscape.Com portal which is known as RSS 0.9. 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. Pretty handy, doesn’t it?

How does it work?
RSS is based on XML, a widely used standard for textual information exchange between applications on the Internet. RSS feeds can be viewed as plain text files, but they’re really designed for computer-to-computer communication. The requested content is delivered directly to you without cluttering your emails mailbox. This content is called a “feed”.

How RSS feed benefits me?
Remember those days without RSS feed? What if you found a website and wish to be regularly updated? RSS is the simplest way to keep track of all your favorite websites in one single place. It works just like bookmark you have accustomed to. With RSS, all you have to do is subscribe to it and you are automatically updated! Very convenient compared to regular bookmark eh?

How to read these err…feeds?
Just like tapes required a tape player to play the content, the same principal goes to feeds. You need a media to read feeds which is called “feed reader” and/or “RSS aggregator”. Worry not as most of them (if not all) are free! This tool lets you subscribe to any feeds you want, checks automatically to see when they’re updated, and then displays the updates for you as they arrive. Simple as that.

You mention feed reader. Can you elaborate more?
As mentioned previously, to read feeds you need feed reader. There are 3 methods available to use a feed reader which is elaborate as follows:

Option 1: Through software

FeedReader

If you want a feed reading program that runs on your own computer, there are a few options. Assuming you are using modern version of web browsers, most of them have built-in support for feeds. Alternatively, there are separate programs to read feeds like FeedDemon and NewsGator.

Some programs come with a small price tag but I believe that there’s absolutely no need to pay for it since there are dozens of free software out there. Just search for “Feed reader” or “Feed aggregator” at popular search sites will yield many results. It’s up to you to pick the best that suits your interest. One fine example is FeedReader3.

Option 2: Web-base service

Bloglines

This method is the most recommended. No software to install and definitely no need to freely give away your email address. Online services give you the advantage of being able to access your feed updates anywhere you can find a web browser. In addition, upgrades and new features are added automatically without you ever notice it. Bloglines, My Yahoo!, Google Reader, Netvibes and Live.com are some of the examples that offer web-based aggregator.

Option 3: Through email subscription

FeedBurner

For those who prefer email subscription, yes, the option is there for you. Thanks to FeedBurner, a web feed management provider which I currently use, every feed subscription is send to your mailbox. All you have to do is fill out the form (it may look like above) and click on the activation link sent to your inbox. That’s all.

How to create a RSS feed?
Most blog softwares will create and publish your feeds automatically without you having to set up anything. (Thank God…) However, if you insist to create one, perhaps the sources listed herein will give you better guides.

Thank you for the explanations. Then what?
Subscribe now to my rss feed for more updates. Period.

digg reddit delicious stumbleupon technorati furl ma.gnolia
Does this post useful? Subscribe to RSS Feed for updates.
Posted on: June 26, 2008 | Under Blogging Basics 
 

Share your thoughts




Speak your mind