Poker has long been played in the back of smoky bars and casinos but it really took off when an accountant from Tennessee named Chris Moneymaker won the World Series of Poker Main Event in 2003. His victory elevated the game to primetime and millions of people wanted to try their luck. Online poker sites sprung up quickly to meet the demand and they offer a safe, convenient way for anyone to wager on a game of cards using their own cash.

While many of the rules remain the same between different types of poker, there are a few important differences to know when playing online. For one, players can’t read their opponents in the same way they would in person. They can’t see their body language and if they are bluffing it is sometimes hard to tell. Luckily, there are tools like our Which Hand Wins Calculator that can help make the decision process much easier for newer players.

Another thing to keep in mind is that online poker sites invest the money their players deposit. This means that they will lose some of it over the course of time. Fortunately, regulations exist to limit this risk to an acceptable level. The best way to avoid losing too much money is to practice the game for a few weeks before trying to play it for real cash. This also gives players a chance to earn the bonuses they were promised.

The quickest and easiest way to get started is by downloading a client from an online poker site. The software will allow you to create a username and password, which will give you access to the games. It will also show you all of the available games that you are eligible to play and how much they cost to join. Choosing the right game will be crucial to your success. You should always choose a game that you are familiar with and can afford to play for money.

Most reputable poker sites have extensive FAQ sections that answer common questions and will help you navigate the software. The FAQs can be particularly helpful when you’re first starting out because they will help you learn the basic rules and strategies of the game. If you’re still having trouble, you can also contact customer support. They will be happy to assist you with any additional questions that you might have.

One of the best things about online poker is that it is accessible from any location with an internet connection. This is especially beneficial for those who live in states that have yet to legalize online poker. As more and more states begin to jump through the regulatory hoops needed to launch their online poker markets, the availability of these sites will continue to expand.