Online poker has become an increasingly popular alternative to live games. With no travel time, no waiting in line and no staking, you can get in on the action without the headaches. Several states have legalized online poker, including Nevada and New Jersey. Others, like Connecticut and Pennsylvania, are only beginning to offer it.

You can play on your phone, tablet or desktop computer, whichever you prefer. Some sites even let you play up to eight tables at once. But before you download the software, you should know what to expect. There are many things to watch out for when it comes to playing online poker.

The best part of playing online is that you are not restricted to your home state or country. However, you may have to wait a few days or even weeks before you can cash out your winnings. Besides, you may need to prove your age.

To get started you will need to sign up for an account. Most poker sites will require that you fill out a registration form. They will then send you an email to verify your account. Depending on the site, you will be able to deposit money with a credit or debit card, bank wire, or third-party eWallet. Other sites, such as Party Poker, will allow you to deposit via email.

Some sites also offer free poker. In addition to the free poker, some sites offer a plethora of promotions. These can be as simple as free bonus money, or they can include cash payouts and/or VIP schemes. Keep in mind that the majority of these promotions will only be given out once you have accumulated a certain amount of frequent player points.

One of the better ways to learn about the game is to read online poker guides. Those with good reviews will provide you with useful tips and tricks that can help you take your skills to the next level. It is also a good idea to look for a site that offers a sign-up bonus, which can be a nice way to get in on the action.

A quick glance at an online poker room’s lobby can reveal a lot. The lobbies are grouped by the different types of poker that are offered. For instance, you’ll find turbo Sit ‘n Go’s and fast-fold cash games. Often, these type of games are a bit more difficult to master, but can be a great way to make some extra money.

On the flip side, some sites will charge you for every deposit and cash out. These fees can range from a few dollars to $30-$60. This makes poker sites less likely to cover the costs of playing, and you may want to check with the site of your choice before you begin.

Of course, you’ll also need to find a good place to learn the rules of the game. Some sites, such as Party Poker, have an entire section dedicated to learning the ins and outs of playing online poker.