Online poker is the game of choice for millions of people around the world. It is a skill-based card game where you make decisions with real money on the line. It’s not for everyone, but for those who are comfortable making real decisions with their hard-earned cash, it can be a very enjoyable pastime with many advantages over live play.

Most people start their poker careers at the Texas Hold’em tables, but there are plenty of other games to choose from as well. Each has its own rules and strategies, and each is played in a slightly different way. However, many of the same rules apply to each game. In fact, most of the top players in the world started out playing Texas Hold’em and worked their way up to other variations.

It’s important to learn the rules of the game before you begin playing for real money. Many poker sites offer beginner tables that are specifically designed for new customers. In these tables, you’ll play only against other new players. This way, you can learn the game without fear of better players preying on your bankroll.

You can also find free-play tables, where you can play against other members of the site for fun. Some of these free-play tables offer real money prizes, but some are just for practice. Some of these sites will even let you test the software before you deposit any money.

Many states have passed laws to regulate online gambling. These regulations help protect players and increase revenue. They also ensure that operators are regulated and supervised. These laws are necessary because the online poker industry is a complicated one with multiple business models and platforms.

In addition to regulating the industry, governments are promoting it by offering tax incentives to attract players. These incentives can be very lucrative and are an excellent way to grow the game. Some of these incentives include tournaments, rakeback deals, and bonus offers.

Online poker is now a vast, multi-billion dollar industry. Millions of people are playing for real money on familiar downloadable poker apps and mobile-only poker rooms. However, it’s important to remember that not all poker sites are created equal.

The top online poker sites for US players will offer a variety of bonuses for new players. Some will offer a refer-a-friend bonus that gives you and your friend a bonus after they deposit and wager a certain amount of money. Others will provide a poker forum or social media group where you can ask questions and share your experiences with other players. These resources can help you become a more successful poker player much faster than simply reading books alone.