You can play poker online on your desktop, laptop, phone, or tablet. You will need to register and download software. Once you have done that, you can start playing. Some sites will offer sign-up bonuses. You will usually need to play at least a few games to take advantage of these offers.
Most of the best online poker sites offer a wide range of deposit options. These can include bank transfers, e-checks, and third party eWallets. Some will even accept bitcoin. These payment methods have the benefit of zero transaction fees and faster turnaround times.
Several online poker sites will also allow you to play side games against “the house” for real money. These are a good way to get the feel for the game. This is especially true if you are new to poker. It is not uncommon for professional players to have periods where they lose more than they win.
Using a poker hand chart is a good way to minimize the casino’s edge. You can also see if your opponent has a strong hand. If your opponent does, then the odds are in your favor.
In terms of the best online poker sites, the most obvious is to look for a room that caters to your particular skill set. If you are a novice, then consider playing at a site that features the “beginner” tables. These are a good way to start because they level the playing field for novices.