Online poker is a game of skill where you compete against people from around the world. Players can play for fun, for satellite entries into major live poker tournaments and even for real money prizes. The game is available on any device with an Internet connection and can be played from the comfort of your own home, office or hotel room.

The online poker industry has grown tremendously since it first emerged in the 1990s, and many states have now legalised the game. There are now several types of online poker games available, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Seven-Card Stud and Razz, plus a wide range of other variations. Players can choose from a variety of stakes and betting limits, with some sites offering bonuses and loyalty rewards to attract new players.

A good online poker strategy starts with a solid bankroll. You should only gamble with money you can afford to lose and never more than 10% of your bankroll at one time. You should also commit to smart game selection, choosing the right game limits and limits that will not put you at financial risk. A strong game selection will help you achieve a positive ROI and ensure you can continue playing long-term.

Once you’ve established a decent bankroll, the next step is to choose an online poker site that offers a safe and secure environment. Look for sites that accept a variety of payment methods, and make sure the website has SSL encryption to protect your sensitive personal information. Some poker sites even offer an IRS IP PIN, which is a unique number assigned to your computer that helps identify and block suspicious activities such as IRS tax return fraud.

When you’re ready to start gambling, sign up for an account at an online poker site and log in with your ID and password. You’ll then be prompted to choose a username and password, and your funds will be stored securely on the server. Many poker sites will also store your transaction history, which you can access at any time. You can then use this history to analyse your performance and make decisions about your strategy.

Unlike live poker, where you can see your opponents and pick up on physical tells, the art of bluffing in an online game requires more mental discipline. Leaving the table to get food or drink, checking your phone, streaming a movie, chatting in the chatroom, or other non-game related distractions will cost you money. Rather than fighting this, be prepared to work on your mental focus and be more aware of what’s going on at the table. Ultimately, this will lead to more consistent success.