What Is RSS and How Do You Use It?
RSS is a simple, open way for websites to publish a list of their newest articles. Here is what it is and how to use it.
RSS (Really Simple Syndication) has been around since the early 2000s and is still used by most news sites, blogs and podcasts. A feed is a small file that lists a site’s latest items — usually a title, short summary, date and link.
How RSS works
When a site publishes something new, its RSS feed updates. An RSS reader checks the feeds you follow and shows the new items together, so you do not have to visit each site.
How to find a site’s RSS feed
Look for an RSS or orange feed icon, or try adding /feed or /rss to the site address. Many news sites also list their feeds on a dedicated page. Google News can also generate a feed for any search.
Why people still use RSS
RSS has no algorithm deciding what you see, no account required by the publisher and no tracking by default. You get every new item from the sources you chose, in order.
Reading RSS on NewsDeskOnline
NewsDeskOnline works as a free online RSS reader. Paste any feed link in Feed Sources, or pick from the Feed Directory, and headlines appear on your desk with links to the original articles.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need software to read RSS?
- No. An online reader like NewsDeskOnline works in your browser.
- Is RSS still used?
- Yes. Most major news sites, blogs and every podcast publish RSS feeds.