RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication. It's an easy way for you to keep up with news and information that's important to you, and helps you avoid the conventional methods of browsing or searching for information on websites. Now the content you want can be delivered directly to you without cluttering your inbox with e-mail messages. This content is called a "feed" and is identified on websites using an "RSS" button.

What Is an RSS Reader?

An RSS reader is a small software program that collects and displays RSS feeds. It allows you to scan headlines from a number of news sources in a central location. 

Where Can I Get an RSS Reader? 

Most modern browsers, such as the current versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox and Safari have built in RSS readers. If you're using a browser that doesn't currently support RSS, there are a variety of RSS readers available on the web; some are free to download and others are available for purchase.

How Do I Use RSS Feeds? 

RSS readers and browsers that include built-in RSS readers have a slightly different way of adding a new feed, also called a "channel." Follow the directions for your reader but, in most cases, here's how it works: 

Click on the link or small RSS button near the feed you want. For example, IAPP News & PR. If your browser has a built-in RSS reader simply follow the instructions to subscribe and add the RSS feed to you subscriber list. If your browser does NOT have a built-in RSS reader, you'll see a page displaying XML code and you'll need to download and install an RSS reader (also called RSS agregator). Once you install your RSS Reader, copy the URL (web address) from your web browser's address bar and paste that URL into the "Add New Channel" section of the reader. Once the feed is added (either through your built-in browser RSS reader or 3rd party Reader) the RSS feed will start to display and regularly update the headlines for you.