Introduction to RSS

What is RSS?

RSS (Really Simple Syndication) is a technology that delivers frequently-updated content on the web. RSS feed readers allow you to view all of your RSS feed subscriptions in one, convenient location.

Look for these common icons that indicate an RSS feed is available:

To learn more about RSS feeds and feed readers, see this excellent 3.5-minute video from Common Craft: RSS Feeds in Plain English.

Benefits of RSS Feeds and Feed Readers

• Stay informed by receiving the newest content from your chosen websites.
• Save time by viewing updates in one location, rather than visiting each site individually.
• Easily access the original blog post, article, or news item: each item in the reader links directly to that item on the source website.
• Free your email inbox from notifications and newsletters.
• Access your feeds from any computer or mobile device with a web-based feed reader.

RSS Feed Readers

There are many feed readers to choose from, and which will work best for you depends on which device, browser, or operating system you use most.

The RSS Compendium lists many feed readers broken down by operating system.

A few of the most popular feed readers:

Web-based:

• Google Reader | Guide to Using Google Reader [UNC]
• NetVibes | Customizing a Netvibes page [MSU]

Browser-based:

• Google Chrome RSS Feed Reader Extensions
• Mozilla Firefox RSS Feed Reader Extensions
• Internet Explorer

Desktop-based:

• Feed Demon  (Windows)
• Mozilla Thunderbird  (Mac, Windows, Linux)
• NetNewsWire  (Mac)
• RSSOwl  (Mac, Windows, Linux)