What are RSS Feeds?

It seems as if RSS feeds are taking the Internet by storm these days. Everywhere Internet surfers look, websites and weblogs (also known simply as blogs) are inviting them to subscribe to their RSS feeds.

RSS stands for "Really Simple Syndication." Very simply put, an Internet surfer can subscribe to RSS feeds that are broadcast from the websites and blogs that they find interesting or useful. RSS feeds are an excellent way to keep up with constant changing information such as news, opinion editorials, and even the latest prices on consumables.

The RSS feed icon has quickly become the universal standard to show website visitors that a website has a feed available for subscription. There are other icons, but almost any user-friendly website or blog will display the icon to the left in addition to any lesser known icons.

To subscribe to an RSS feed, typically all the user has to do is click on the icon and a new page will display in their browser. The user will then copy the feed URL located in their browser's URL window and paste it into their RSS feed aggregator of choice.

How Do I Get RSS Feeds?

RSS feeds are typically read by feed aggregators; downloadable programs that can check for new content from subscribed websites, interpret the broadcast feeds, and display them on the users' computer desktop.

Some of the most popular downloadable RSS feed aggregators:

Windows Users

Mac Users

There are many other downloadable feed aggregators with varying levels of customization options and features.

There are also web-based aggregators that allow the user to read their favorite RSS feeds online, without downloading any software to their computer. These have a few added benefits, including the ability to read feeds on any computer. These services are also typically able to be tied in with the user's email addresses, local weather forecasts, and other features.

Some of the most robust and popular web-based RSS feed aggregators:

The popularity of RSS feeds isn't showing any signs of slowing down. Even mobile phone carriers and manufacturers are getting in on the act by providing phones and services that enable readers to read their favorite RSS feeds anywhere they receive mobile phone services. Manufacturers such as Blackberry and Palm Treo offer products that are robust enough to handle this service. Additionally, web services such as Netomat.net offer additional features free of charge.

As the technology advances, more and more emphasis will be placed on ways for the Internet user to receive their favorite RSS feeds in the most simple and efficient manner possible. Look for more advances periodically, as companies offer new and improved RSS feed-related services.