A format for content distribution, RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication.
RSS is a system that allows a user to get automatic updates from multiple websites whenever new content is published on these sites. It acts like a personal web reader by checking your selected sites regularly for new content. If you set up an RSS feed from the New York Times Sports section, for example, you would be notified whenever a new article was posted. The notification takes place in an RSS Reader.
How do I start using RSS Feeds?
To use a site's RSS feature, an RSS reader is required.
1. Choose an RSS reader. An internet search will return many options.
Some readers are web-based, such as Google Reader and Bloglines. Web-based readers require no software installation and are accessible from any computer that has internet access.
Other readers are downloadable applications.
Some browsers, including Firefox and Safari, automatically pick up RSS feeds for you.
2. Once you have chosen an RSS reader, follow the instructions to download, install, and open the reader.
3. Decide what type of content you want the RSS reader to monitor.
Many websites provide RSS, which can usually be found on those sites as a link. An orange or button is often used to display the service's availability.
Typically the RSS feed is automatically added to the RSS reader and updates are sent every time new content is available.
Alternatively, you may have to right-click the RSS link and copy the URL into your RSS reader.
What is Podcasting?
Podcasts are MP3 files that may be played on any computer or MP3 player. Podcasting is a way to automatically distribute audio and video content through the internet. It improves public access and government transparency beyond just video. Podcasting lets you collect MP3s of programs and play them through a portable device, whenever and wherever it is convenient.
There are two ways to listen to podcasts: streaming or downloading.
Streaming When you click a link for one of the podcasts, your browser will automatically launch an MP3 player on your computer and start playing the podcast. This means that you don’t have to wait for the entire file to download before listening to it. For this to work you must have an MP3 player installed, such as Microsoft Media Player or iTunes.
Downloading If you want to save a podcast onto your computer and listen to it later, you can right-click a download link and select Save Target As… Once it has been completely downloaded, you can open it in any program that plays MP3 files, or transfer it to an MP3 player, such as an iPod.
How do I get a Podcast?
In order to make podcasting work, you will need a podcasting-enabled RSS reader, such as iTunes. These players/readers can be found on the internet and are usually free. A list of podcasting readers is located here.
or 
button is often used to display the service's availability.
