Online poker is a popular pastime for millions of people. It is estimated that around 15 million people play online poker for real money. This represents 2.5% of the adult population. Online poker sites offer a variety of options for players, including cash games, tournaments, and holdem and omaha games. There is always a game to join.

However, there are several challenges to establishing online poker in Alaska. The state has historically opposed gambling, and the population is small. Regardless, the state would need to partner with other states to develop an online poker industry. This means drafting appropriate legislation and creating a licensing body. Likewise, it would have to entice operators to set up shop in the state. Eventually, it would be necessary to sign agreements with other states to share player traffic.

While many sites cater to all players, others cater to specific types of players. For example, Full Tilt and PokerStars are designed for novices and high rollers alike. In addition, some sites have beginners-only tables. These tables are usually free of better players. However, you should avoid playing at these tables if you are a professional poker player.

Other options for playing online poker include social sites and sweepstakes sites. Global Poker is a popular sweepstakes site that allows players to use virtual currency to play poker. The site also allows players to register for free, and offers both cash games and tournaments. The website is a popular destination for poker players in California.

Another benefit of playing poker online is anonymity. Using a username gives opponents an opportunity to track you, and playing anonymously protects new players from shark-infested waters. Ignition Poker, for instance, offers anonymity to all players. Furthermore, it doesn’t allow players to use Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) to monitor opponents.

Most major online poker sites have various features to lure new players. For example, many offer satellite tournaments that allow winners to qualify for real-life poker tournaments. In 2003, Chris Moneymaker won an online satellite tournament to enter the World Series of Poker, and he ended up winning the main event. After his victory, the poker world was stunned. A year later, there were three times as many participants in the 2004 WSOP. Four of the final table players won their entry through an online cardroom.

There are many types of software available for online poker players. Some include hand database programs that save hand histories played online. Some software will also display odds, equity, and variance. Some programs even offer quizzes and scan hands to catch mistakes. A few of the most popular poker software is free to download. Many sites also offer VIP programs.