What is RSS? - top

RSS, otherwise known as Really Simple Syndication, is a convenient way to stay current with your favorite websites by bringing the content directly to you. Instead of visiting your favorite sites to find out if there is any new content since your last visit, use RSS to deliver the information to your desktop. Many websites, like CNN and the Washington Post, now offer RSS feeds.

Sites with RSS feeds will often have a button to indicate that feeds are available. Here are some examples of commonly used buttons:

What tools do I need to use RSS? - top

To read an RSS feed, you will need to use a news reader or aggregator. You will not be able to read the RSS code in an email or in a browser. A news reader will automatically check for updates of the RSS feeds that you subscribe to and then display the latest feeds for you to read.

There are many free news readers available. Some are web-based, and you can use them on any computer connected to the Internet, while others can be downloaded to your computer. Here are some examples of free news readers:

• SharpReader
• AmphetaDesk
• FeedDemon

What are the benefits of RSS? - top

RSS will keep you current with news from websites that you frequently use. For example, if there is a new online database, a special event happening in Montgomery County, or new County services, the news will be delivered via our RSS feed, and you will know about it as soon as it has been posted online.