What is RSS?
Introduction
RSS or Really Simple Syndication is a useful means of keeping updated on your favourite websites. RSS makes use of special code that constantly scans the content of a website for news updates and then broadcasts those updates to all of those who wish to be kept informed of changes
How does RSS work?
To be able to receive news updates you have to use a news aggregator. This will allow you to track many web sites. Once a web site you are tracking has been updated; your news aggregator will receive a small amount of text, either a summary or the lead-in to the larger story. You can then follow the link to read more.
When you find a website that offers an RSS feed (like this one) you can add it to your aggregator and then you will know when it has been updated. To add it to your aggregator click on the RSS or XML button on the site. Depending on which aggregator you have; either the feed will automatically be added or you will need to copy and paste the URL of the page you have been taken to and manually add the feed to your aggregator.
How much does it cost?
It need not cost anything. There are a number of news aggregators available both online and for download and installation onto your PC. Some of them are free and with a little bit of searching, you should be able to find one that appeals to you. In addition to being available on your computer, RSS news feeds can also be read on Personal Digital Assistants and mobile phones.
On-line only services
Downloads for your PC
Feed Reader (free product)
Feed Demon (free trial)