Online poker is a card game played via the internet. It is accessible around the clock and can be played in a variety of ways, from a computer to a mobile phone or tablet. It is a fast-growing industry that has seen major changes since its inception. The rise of online poker has led to an increased interest in the game and in casinos that offer it. In addition, a number of states have now legalized online poker and are regulating it.

A few things to keep in mind when playing poker online are that you need to be at least 18 years old or the minimum age in your jurisdiction. You will also need to provide a valid government-issued ID and proof of address. There are a number of websites that require this information to verify the identity of its users. This is done to prevent underage gambling and money laundering.

Once you have provided the required documentation, the process of adding funds to your account can begin. This is typically done by navigating to the cashier section of the site. Once you click this, you can enter the amount of money you would like to add and follow the instructions. The minimum and maximum amounts vary depending on the website. Some websites also allow you to add funds using BTC, e-wallets or credit cards.

Before you start playing for real money, it is best to try out a few free games first. This will give you a feel for the game and will help you understand its rules better. When you’re ready, make small bets and work your way up slowly to higher stakes. Eventually, you’ll be ready to take on the big boys.

While you’re learning, it is a good idea to track your results. This will allow you to see how well you’re doing and where you can improve. Fortunately, most online poker sites have built-in session stats that you can view after you play a hand. You can see your win-rate, number of flops seen and how many times you went to showdown.

Another aspect to consider when deciding on an online poker site is whether or not it offers a mobile app. This will make it easier to play on the go, especially if you don’t have access to your laptop or desktop. Several sites even have apps for the most popular mobile platforms such as iOS and Android.

Black Friday put a damper on the online poker industry, but this didn’t mean that it was over. In fact, it has just begun to thrive again, with more and more state-regulated operators opening their doors. Most of these sites adhere to strict standards, including a commitment to keeping all operations within state boundaries. They also employ a range of security and responsible gambling solutions to protect players’ safety. The result is a robust and secure poker ecosystem that continues to grow. This is great news for players!