Online poker is played using a computer and the internet. It has led to a huge increase in the number of players worldwide. It is legal in most states and regulated by strict consumer protection laws. The rules of the game are the same as in live poker but playing online requires a different skill set.

There are several different types of online poker available. Besides the more traditional Texas Hold’em, there are Sit & Go tournaments and spin and go tournaments (these have a roulette wheel where part of your buy-in goes to the jackpot). In addition, you can play games like Omaha and 7 Card Stud online.

The first thing you need to do when deciding to play poker online is to find an account at one of the top sites. The best ones offer safe deposits and withdrawals with multiple banking options. They also have easy-to-use software and a variety of customizing options. Ignition Poker, for example, allows you to change the color of the cards and table layout.

It is advisable to sign up with an account that offers a welcome bonus. This could be $100 in free poker chips after your first hand or a 100% deposit match up to $600. In either case, this is a great way to try out the site before investing any money.

In addition to freerolls and promotions, most of the best poker sites online have loyalty programs that reward players for their continuing play. These programs can be very lucrative, especially if you are a frequent player at the site. In some cases, you can even earn cash back from the poker site that you play at.

Another advantage of online poker is the high traffic. This creates a large player pool that is comprised of both new and experienced players. This provides a great environment for beginners to learn the basics, and more experienced players can take on higher stakes.

A third benefit of online poker is the low variance. This means that your gains and losses will be lower than in a live game, although this may not always be the case at the micros and low limits. This is due to the fact that the players calling the most often at these levels are making subpar hands that are likely to outdraw better ones.

Finally, there is no shortage of free poker information and advice on the internet. Many websites offer articles and tutorials, while others provide videos of professional players in action. You can also watch poker streams on popular websites such as Twitch, which lets you donate to the streamer or subscribe to get access to videos and analysis on demand.