More Secure Blogging In The Clouds

By Andy Beal
Expert Author
Article Date: 2009-09-10

What would you rather have? A safe, secure WordPress platform that doesn't require a half-dozen plugins in order to run effectively, or, faster distribution of your RSS feed?

If, like me, your vote went to option A, then you're probably not going to be too thrilled about the latest update from the WordPress mothership. If you drooled over option B, then you're probably a big geek and will need a change of underwear when you see what WordPress has in store for you.

WordPress founder Matt Mullenweg just flicked the switch on rssCloud-or RSS Cloud, or RSSCloud, take your pick-which means 7.5 million blogs now have the capability to push out updates in real time.

Why is this important? Right now how most people interact with feeds is by checking that it updated every now and then, usually about once an hour. Can you imagine waiting an hour to get your emails? (The world would probably be more productive.) RSS Cloud is an extra element in your RSS feed that allows subscribers to say "Hey, let me know as soon as you've updated, kthx."

The only problem is that there's only one RSS reader that currently supports rssCloud-and it ain't Google Reader! So, while the future looks bright-and fast-the announcement is pretty superficial. Unless you consider it a slight of hand.

Slight of hand? That's what my good friend @Ed suggests over at Twitter:

@Ed

As you can see, he's responding to the comments from another good friend of mine-and self-appointed Twitter conscience-@GrayWolf, who's somewhat annoyed that WordPress would roll out an update that is both a) not immediately beneficial, and b) not a high priority for many WordPress users.

I have to agree with him. While the timing may or may not be designed to take the heat of yet more hacking threats to WordPress.org users, I'm somewhat frustrated that WordPress lacks many basic features and continues to suffer attack after attack.

So, what about you? I'm sure this post will get on Matt Mullenweg's radar, so leave a comment and let him know what you think WordPress should make a priority.

Comments

About the Author:
Andy Beal is an internet marketing consultant and considered one of the world's most respected and interactive search engine marketing experts. Andy has worked with many Fortune 1000 companies such as Motorola, CitiFinancial, Lowes, Alaska Air, DeWALT, NBC and Experian.

You can read his internet marketing blog at Marketing Pilgrim and reach him at andy.beal@gmail.com.