Online poker takes the game of poker and cranks it up to a whole new level. You can play at home for the smallest stakes imaginable (literally pennies) or you can compete for millions of dollars in some of the biggest live poker tournaments around the world.

There are numerous variations of poker but the most popular by far is No-Limit Texas Hold’em which famed poker legend Doyle Brunson called “The Cadillac of Poker.” Thousands of Hold’em games are run 24/7 at all stake levels. Fortunately for novices, all major poker sites offer free gaming accounts where you can practice your game without wagering any real money.

When it comes to playing poker online, there are a few things you should know before making your first bet. Firstly, make sure you choose a site that is licensed and regulated by an independent gambling authority and that has a third-party security firm inspect their software regularly. Also be sure to read reviews from players so you can get an idea of what other people think about the site.

Lastly, limit yourself to one table at a time especially when you are just starting out. There is a lot to process when you are playing poker online and trying to multitask can be very distracting. Keeping to one table can help you focus your attention and allow you to make more accurate calls.

Another thing to be aware of is that you will see a lot more hands when you are playing poker online than you would in a live game. When you are at a live poker table the shuffle and dealing takes up much of your time so the number of hands that you see per hour is considerably lower than when playing online. This will likely frustrate some players as they may feel like they are getting no action and can cause them to make bad decisions.

A good way to counteract this is to invest in a poker analysis program that will overlay your screen and give you information on your opponents such as their pre-flop raise percentage. This will help you to improve your decision-making and can help you to win more hands.

Keeping these simple tips in mind will greatly improve your chances of winning when you are playing poker online. Whether you are an experienced player or just starting out, the right tips can take your game to the next level and help you win more money. Remember, the key to success is to have proper bankroll management and avoid distractions.