Poker has been around for centuries in smoky bars and casinos but online poker takes this game of cards to a whole new level. Now anyone can play poker from anywhere in the world for a very low cost or even free. It’s a card game that rewards actual skill unlike slots or the lottery and can also be incredibly exciting and fun to play.

Getting started is as simple as creating a user account on the site and funding your bankroll using one of the secure deposit methods available. Then you’re ready to play! Some sites will require additional documents to confirm your identity but this is standard practice and not a big deal. You’ll probably be asked to scan an ID and possibly a utility bill in your name at the address on file with the website.

Once you’ve signed up and funded your account you can log in to the poker site lobby and start playing games. Generally the lobby will be categorized by cash games, tournaments and Sit & Go’s. If you’re a beginner then I recommend filtering for ‘beginner’ tables as this will ensure you are only seated with players who classify themselves as beginners. This makes the learning curve much more manageable for those still getting used to the speed of online poker games.

In order to make money from poker it’s essential that you understand the basics of the game. The best way to do this is to spend some time studying the different poker strategies and tactics, especially hand selection, position, pot odds and bankroll management concepts. It’s also a good idea to start at low-stakes tables and gradually increase your stakes as you gain experience and confidence. You should always be sure to set aside a specific poker bankroll and not risk more than you can afford to lose.

One of the main reasons why online poker has become so popular is that it’s very convenient for many people to play. It can be played from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection and doesn’t require any traveling to a land based casino or poker room.

Besides the convenience, there are other advantages to playing online. It’s usually smoke-free and you can use a screenname to keep your personal information anonymous. Plus you won’t have to worry about people judging you for making mistakes because nobody can see your face! Another advantage is that you’ll be able to practice your game in the comfort of your own home.