What Is RSS, XML and Atom?

What Is RSS, XML and Atom? by Tamy Karens

You are browsing a blog site one day, and then you saw this orange button that says ¡°RSS¡±. You then checked a news site, and then saw an orange button that says ¡°XML¡±. Then you saw some more sites that have RSS links. Now, you wonder, what are these things all about?

These things never had to be a mystery. What follows are basic information regarding RSS, XML and Atom.

What is an XML?

- General Definition

XML stands for Extensive Markup Language. It is the standard markup language used to define various types of data. It is created to enable data sharing among various systems patched by the Internet. The language format is formalized, to allow modification and validation of files regardless of prior knowledge of the document form.

- XML Features

Before the birth of the XML files sharing files among different programs and platforms was difficult because of the use of binary system in encoding.

In an XML file, characters (the fundamental unit) are sequenced in an allowed serial pattern.

Word processors also made XML maintenance and authoring easier, since it will be dealing with characters, not bits.

- Uses of XML

1. XML is used to represent a lot of data, especially lists, records and trees- the basic forms of data structures.

2. It can also be used to communicate human languages that are written because of the Unicode support.

3. The XML format is also employed in data processing and storage.

- Pros and Cons

The XML format is a universally accepted format. It also does not depend on a specific platform for it to execute. It also employs a hierarchical code structure that is compatible with most of the document formats. How can you find high paying keywords for your Blog? Free $97 Secret Adsense Book at http://www.honestreview.info/adsense/index.html

However, XML is limited by bandwidth. In the case of PDA and cellular phone technology that uses XML, files are compressed.

Now, what then is RSS?

- General Definition

RSS, which stands for Really Simple Syndication, is a set of web feed formats that use XML to deliver information.

- What are the uses of RSS feeds?

RSS feeds are used to give updates to users regarding site contents without having to actually check the site. This can be done by delivering the full content of the update, or by sending a link, or by defining the metadata that composes the file. What are the percentage of people earning on Adsense Blogs? And how much do they earn? Get your special $97 report on Adsense Tips and Tricks!

A lot of sites like web logs, pod casts and news sites use RSS feeds.

- What are the benefits of RSS feeds?

The information that can be seen in RSS feeds is simpler than the source web site. That is why it is easier for users to view the important items.