Online poker is a game of chance but it’s also a skill-based game over the long run. Top pros spend as much time studying the game as they do playing it. Signing up for training sites like Chip Leader Coaching or Upswing Poker, networking with successful pros and brutally analyzing your own play after every session are the keys to success.

Once you’ve decided to play poker online, find a site that has the games and tournaments you’re looking for. Download the poker site’s software if necessary (it typically doesn’t take more than a few minutes to do and is virus-free) and create an account by selecting a screen name. You won’t be able to change your moniker later and only one account is allowed per poker site, so be sure you choose something that will please everyone who sees it!

Before you begin playing online poker for real money, read up on the rules and regulations of your specific state. Most states have some sort of regulation in place that limits the amount of risk that a poker site can take with players’ funds. In addition, poker sites are required to use advanced encryption technology to keep your personal information secure. You can check for this security feature by viewing the site’s SSL certificate.

If you’re new to online poker, it may be helpful to sign up for a free account on an established poker site. You can practice your game with fake money and work up to your real-money stakes. While you can find a number of poker sites online, make sure to only play at reputable ones with good customer support and secure banking options. You should also consider signing up for a poker-related email newsletter, such as the WSOP newsletter or the PokerNews Weekly Newsletter to stay up to date on the latest news and trends in the game.

When you’re ready to play for real money, select a tournament or cash table that fits your bankroll and skill level. Many poker sites offer beginner tables which allow you to be seated with other players who have classified themselves as beginners. This significantly levels the playing field for novice players and is a great way to learn the game.

Another great advantage of online poker is that it doesn’t involve reading body language or other tells from your opponents. This is a great benefit because in live poker, people tend to yell when you misread their signals or make a mistake. Lastly, you can play multiple tables at once online which makes the game even more fun. This is called multi-tabling and it can help you increase your winnings by doubling your chances of getting a good hand.