Online poker is a game of chance that is played by players from all over the world on platforms hosted by licensed operators. Online poker sites are highly regulated on a state-by-state basis and adhere to strict rules that guarantee fair play, player safety, financial stability and game variety. They are also subject to regular security audits, and offer a wide range of deposit options and withdrawal methods that allow for safe and convenient transactions.

Whether you’re an experienced poker vet or a total beginner, the best way to learn how to play is by joining an online poker site and playing for free. Many websites offer this as a service to new players, allowing them to get a feel for the game before investing any money. However, you must be careful to choose a reputable website and only use the funds you have designated for gambling.

If you’re a novice, it’s best to start off slow by playing low-limit games and slowly increase your stakes as you gain experience. This will help you build a bankroll while still having fun. Additionally, it’s a good idea to try different poker variants, as each one has its own unique style that can help you improve your skills. You should also limit your session times, as this is a mental game that can tire you out, and take regular breaks.

While the rules of online poker are the same as those of live poker, there are some differences in the way that players size up their opponents. For example, there are no physical ‘tells’ that players can read in online poker, but you can still gauge the strength of your opponent’s hand by monitoring their betting tendencies. To speed up the process, you can use a poker software tool to analyse your opponent’s behavior.

To make sure that you’re playing on a legitimate online poker site, be sure to check the license information of the casino and read reviews to see what other players have said about their experiences with the platform. This will give you a better idea of the quality of the site and whether it’s worth your time to sign up.

Once you’ve decided on a site, follow the instructions to create an account. You’ll usually be asked to provide your name, address and phone number, and create a username and password. You may also be required to complete identity verification processes and agree to the site’s terms and conditions before you can begin playing. Once your account is created, you can fund it using any method the site accepts. Most sites accept credit and debit cards, e-wallets, PayPal and Neteller.