Online poker is a card game played over the internet. It’s been partially responsible for a huge increase in the number of poker players worldwide. It requires a computer with a decent amount of memory and a high-speed Internet connection. It also requires a user account, which is generally created when you download the poker software and may require age verification.
Unlike live casinos, most online poker sites invest the money their customers deposit and are heavily regulated to ensure fair play, secure transactions and protection of players’ information. This makes it important to choose a reputable site with a solid reputation. The good news is that the most trusted sites are very easy to find.
It’s important to note that the landscape for online poker is very different than it was when I entered the game during the ‘Moneymaker Boom.’ Back then there were a handful of poker forums worth visiting, a few pieces of poker software to learn, and a limited number of books that deserved a read. Today there are a nearly infinite number of poker forums, Discord channels, and FB groups to discuss the game in and a seemingly endless list of poker programs and training videos available to improve your game.
Most online poker sites offer a range of games including cash, sit & go and tournaments. There are often options for multi-table tournaments and the ability to filter tables by your preferred stakes or skill level. Many sites have “beginner” tables that let you play with only other players who have classified themselves as beginners, a feature that dramatically levels the playing field for new players. Many of the top online poker sites also offer anonymous tables, preventing opponents from using HUDs to track your moves in real time.