Online poker is the game of cards played on computers or phones over a secure connection. It has taken over from its traditional home in the smoky backrooms of casinos and bars and is now available to anyone with an internet connection and some cash. You can play for fun or for real money and you can even win satellite entries to major live tournaments around the world. It can be a fun pastime or a serious moneymaker depending on how much time and effort you put into it.
Before playing poker online you need to make sure that the site you are going to use is reputable and that your information will be kept secure. Look for a gaming license from a recognized body, see that their software is regularly inspected by a third party and read reviews to get an idea of the experiences that other players have had.
Most of the top sites will allow you to sign up for a free account and play in practice mode before you deposit. This will help you get familiar with the software and the rules of poker without risking your own money. Some may require that you send in documentation to prove your identity, such as a photo ID and a utility bill from the address on file for your account. This is a standard procedure and no cause for alarm.
Once you are ready to start playing for real money you should look for a site that has sufficient traffic during the hours you want to play. If you are planning on playing a lot of hands, especially during peak hours, make sure that the site you are considering has enough players to keep things moving at a decent pace.
In addition to making sure that the poker site you are using is reputable, you should also pay attention to the number of tables available and the stakes they offer. For example, if you are planning on playing a lot of high-stakes games, it is important to choose a poker room with lots of action at those levels.
It is also a good idea to track your online poker results. Whether you are playing for fun or for real money, tracking your results will help you figure out where you are winning and losing and how to improve your game. If you are serious about your game, consider investing in a poker tracking software program such as PokerTracker or Hold’em Manager.
Another way to improve your online poker skills is to spend some time playing at the tables with more experienced players. There are plenty of opportunities to do this at a variety of online poker rooms and by attending live events like the World Series of Poker or the European Poker Tour. It is also a great way to meet people who share your love of the game.