Online poker is a card game played over the internet in which players wager virtual money and compete against one another. It is highly regulated in states where it is legal, and strict consumer protection laws exist to ensure your account funds and personal information are protected. It is also a very safe and enjoyable activity when used responsibly. While it is a game of skill over the long run, it is still a gambling activity and should only be undertaken with money that you can afford to lose.

To get started with online poker, choose a site and register for an account. You will need to provide basic contact information, like your name, address and email. You will also need to create a username and password. After you’ve set up an account, you can start playing for real money. If you’re new to the game, you should start with low-stakes games and work your way up.

Once you’ve chosen a poker site, make sure to read its terms and conditions carefully. Some sites have age restrictions, and you may need to verify your identity before depositing any money. You can usually do this by providing a photo ID and/or utility bill. Some sites will also ask you to submit a credit or debit card and/or bank account number.

Some state regulations prohibit players from registering for and playing at a licensed poker site if they are not located within the same state as the operator. Others have entered into interstate compacts, allowing players from different states to play with each other. Regardless of your state’s regulations, it is important to use only reputable poker sites.

When choosing a poker site, look for one that offers the most variety of games and tournaments. Ideally, it should also have a lot of traffic. This accomplishes three things: It ensures that there are always active games to play in, it gives you a better chance of finding weak opponents to profit from, and it acts as a tacit endorsement of the site’s trustworthiness.

Customer support is another important consideration. A reliable and friendly team can help you solve any issues that may arise while playing online poker. They can also answer any questions that you might have about the rules of the game and how to play.

In addition to customer support, poker sites should have a wide range of features that enhance the user experience. Some of these features include chat functionality, tournaments, and game variations. Additionally, poker software should be compatible with multiple devices and operating systems.

While there are strategies that can increase your chances of winning, it is important to remember that poker is a game of chance and there is always the possibility that you could lose some of your hard-earned cash. To avoid this, you should only gamble with money that you can afford to lose and be conscious of how many hours you’re spending on the game. It’s also a good idea to seek training from top-level pros, join an online poker community, and engage in regular practice sessions.