Online poker is a card game played over the internet. Players wager against each other using virtual chips in a regulated environment. The game’s rapid expansion in the United States has led to a dramatic increase in prize pools and player participation.

The first step in playing online poker is finding a site. This will typically involve downloading the software and creating a user account. This is usually done through a web browser and can be completed within a few minutes. Once this is complete the next step is selecting a screen name. This will be used for all of your future play at the site and can’t be changed later. You will also be required to verify that you are of age (if you are not, you will need to create another account).

Various poker-specific software tools can help you improve your game. These include hand databases that save, sort and recall your previous hands. Other programs scan active tables for known players and display their past statistics alongside their names (known as a heads-up display or HUD). Some poker sites even have quizzes and odds, equity, and variance calculators available to their players.

In addition to the standard poker rooms, some websites have specialized tournaments or sit and go’s where you can win real money without risking any of your own. These types of games are often a great way for newcomers to get comfortable with the software and layout of a particular site. Many of the best online poker sites offer a variety of promotions and bonuses for their players, including freeroll tournaments where you can win cash prizes without ever depositing any money.

Many experienced live poker players have attempted to make the transition to the online version of the game. However, it’s not always as easy as some people believe. A few common mistakes that many players make when moving to online poker can cost them their entire bankrolls.

A major difference between live and online poker is the speed of play. In general, players can expect to see about twice as many hands per hour when playing online. This can be a huge shock for new players who are accustomed to the slower pace of live poker. Additionally, the online game often offers more difficult competition than live games at comparable stakes.

While some players may prefer to play in a live casino or at a local card room, most players enjoy the convenience and comfort of playing online. Online poker is currently legal in most states and offers a wide range of betting options. Although regulation is constantly changing, it would likely take a seismic social or political shift for U.S. lawmakers to consider banning the game altogether. In the meantime, it’s a good idea for players to sign up for a reputable online poker site, choose a safe and secure payment method, and keep an eye on their personal details.