How does RSS work?

RSS is a format for distributing website content to a number of subscribers. It enables them to receive new information published on the website without needing to access it, thus saving time and not missing any updates. While there are many applications (aggregators) that allow users to view RSS feeds, updates and news are usually shown as a list of titles ordered by date. The news item can be viewed by clicking on the title.

The latest versions of most browsers can read RSS feeds, although other applications which perform the same function can also be installed on computers.

A third alternative is to use specialist websites which function as on-line applications (iGoogle, Netvives, Bloglines, MyYahoo).

Another advantage of the RSS format is that it allows items published on other websites to be distributed. The Government of Catalonia allows information on its websites to be relayed in this way provided that the source is quoted and there is a link to the original content.