Online poker is a card game played over the internet through special software. This software allows players to communicate with each other and place wagers in the same way as a traditional live casino game. The cards, tables and chats are all virtual but the stakes are real. This form of poker has been growing in popularity as people have gained access to fast internet connections on computers and mobile phones.

The first step to playing poker online is registering at a site and downloading their software. This software usually does not require a lot of memory or processing power and will work on even the oldest computer. Once the software is installed you can start playing immediately. Many sites offer free play versions of their software but these have limited features and are often not as smooth as the full download version.

Most online poker sites accept a wide variety of methods for depositing money and withdrawing winnings. These include credit cards, prepaid cards, bank transfers and third-party eWallets. Some also allow you to send a check by mail but this can be expensive and takes time to process. Most sites also offer bonuses and promotions for their players which can help you build up your bankroll and stay competitive.

There are a lot of different online poker websites available but you have to be careful which one you choose. Some sites are only licensed to operate in certain states while others are based outside of the USA. Some of the best US poker sites are 888poker and Bovada but it is important to research the legal status of online gambling in your area before signing up.

When it comes to online poker regulation is constantly changing. While there are still a few states that have outright bans on the game most of them allow it to some extent. It is also important to consider whether or not a particular site has a reputation for being responsible and has been certified as fair by an independent testing organization.

Another factor to consider is whether or not the site offers a mobile application. Most major sites have apps for iPhones and Android devices that let you play while on the go. It is also a good idea to make sure the site has a good customer service team if you have any issues.

Multitabling is another feature that most online poker sites support. This allows you to play more than one table at a time. Some poker professionals are able to multi-table up to 20 times a day although this is not something beginners should attempt. Unlike live games you would need a background in acrobatics or teleportation to pull this off in a live game!

Getting money on and off of poker sites is pretty easy compared to the old days. Depending on the region there are usually a variety of options for depositing money including a wide range of credit and debit cards as well as pre-paid cards. Often times you can even use Bitcoin to deposit and withdraw. When it comes to payouts most poker sites will process BTC payments quickly and easily while you can also get a physical check if you prefer.