RSS Tutorial

What is RSS?

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication and it allows you to have a web site's content automatically downloaded to your computer or MP3 player.

Why Should I Care?

The real benefit of using RSS is that the web comes to you. Instead of checking regularly for new content from a favorite web site you can simply subscribe to their RSS feed and thereby receive the updated content automatically. This content can include text, photos and even audio files (often called Podcasts) that will play on your MP3 player.

How Can I Start To Use RSS?

If you want to take advantage of RSS feeds from web sites you will need to download a piece of software called an aggregator (also called news readers and feed readers). Many are available as web based applications. The aggregator organizes and downloads all of your RSS feeds from different web sites. These feeds are called channels (think of TV channels). When you select a channel you will see all of the newest messages from that site.

Where Can I Find an RSS Aggregator?

Do a Google search for "Best RSS Aggregator" or "RSS Feed Reader" and you will find many to choose from. If all you want to do is listen to Podcasts (MP3s) then Itunes is a top choice.

How Can I Tell if a Site has an RSS Feed?

The standard symbol for RSS is . If you find this button on a site you can be sure they have an RSS feed. There are many variations of this button as well. On this site we use the symbol . Once you find the RSS feed button just follow the instructions that came with your aggregator to add the RSS feed as a channel.