Online poker has exploded in popularity in recent years. The game is fun, simple and rewards skill. Poker games can be played on a variety of devices including desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphone, and gaming console. While playing online can be entertaining, it’s also a bit more complex than playing on the go. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics before you jump in.

There are two basic types of online poker: no-limit and limit. Each game offers cash options as well as tournaments. No-limit poker is usually the most popular option, but limit games are also available, especially on sites with a higher payout percentage.

Creating an account with an online poker operator of your choice requires a few basic steps. In the first place, you’ll need to download the poker software to your device. Most of the top operators require a downloaded program, while some others provide a no-download version of their games. After that, you’ll need to install the app.

The best part is that you can play for real money at a number of US-friendly sites. These sites accept a variety of deposit methods, including eWallets, wire transfers, and check payments. A number of operators are licensed and monitored by the states, ensuring that players receive fair payouts and data protection. Among the largest operators are Full Tilt and PokerStars.

One of the most exciting things about online poker is the ability to play anytime, anywhere. For many players, the convenience of being able to play at home without having to travel is the reason that they choose to play the game. But, if you’re not interested in playing for real money, you can play for free and test your skills.

To start with, you’ll need a stable internet connection. If you’re a PC player, you can download the software from the operator’s website. However, if you prefer to play on a mobile device, you’ll need to download the poker application from the operator’s mobile site. Once the application is installed, you’ll need to enter a few details. Usually, you’ll need to provide your full name, birth date, address, and social security number. Depending on the operator, you may be required to produce additional documentation.

Several of the top poker operators offer the elusive “big one,” the most impressive poker hand you can beat. Some sites offer the chance to win a free seat in a live tournament. They do this by offering a bonus that’s released based on how often a player’s frequent player points (FPP) are earned. Similarly, there’s also an IRS-approved IP PIN that can be used for life in general.

One of the most exciting aspects of online poker is the sheer number of hands you can play at any given time. Many of the large tournaments can take an entire day or more to complete. This means you won’t have to spend your whole life sitting at a table waiting for someone to fold. On the other hand, playing a lot of hands can get boring.