Online poker is a game played against other players on secure poker sites using real money wagers. The games are regulated by state and territory laws and players must be at least 18 or 21 to play. Players can choose from a variety of games and tournaments. The best online poker sites use highly rated software, offer mobile apps for playing on the go, and have a secure gambling environment. They also have secure deposit options and a wide range of payout methods.

To get started, find a reputable online poker site and sign up for an account. The process should be quick and easy, but it will require some personal information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email address. Once you’ve signed up, you can select a username and password. Then, add funds to your account by navigating to the cashier section of the website. Once your funds are added, you can play for real money.

The rules of poker are the same whether you play in your hometown or an online casino, but there are some differences when it comes to strategy. In land-based casinos, you can read physical ”tells” from other players’ facial expressions, body language, and breathing. This information can help you determine if your opponent is bluffing or holding a strong hand. Online, your opponents won’t be able to read these tells and will be unable to pick up on your betting tendencies.

Most online poker sites will offer free play-money tables for new players to practice their skills without risking any real money. This is a great way to get a feel for the game and build confidence before playing for real. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to real-money games and even enter poker tournaments. Just remember to always play responsibly and never chase your losses.

Several online poker schools and courses are available for beginner players to learn the game from experts. These courses usually take the form of video tutorials that walk you through sample hands and teach you the inner workings of the game. Some of these courses are free while others are paid. Regardless of which method you choose to learn, be sure to do your research and check out reviews from other students.

Many online poker sites will have a list of recommended courses to help you get started. These are often written by experienced players and include a range of topics that cover everything from strategy to game theory. You can also find plenty of videos on YouTube that feature professional players explaining their strategies and giving tips. However, be aware that these videos may not cover every aspect of the game and aren’t a substitute for an official course. Also, they are likely to be biased in favor of the poker rooms that they work for.