Online poker is a form of gambling that allows players to compete against other players for real money. It is played online using a software program that displays odds, odds comparisons, a hand history and a variance. Most of the games you can play online are free, while others are available for real money.
Before you can play real money online, you will have to create an account. You’ll need to fill out a few forms and give your name and address. The site will then require proof of identity, which can include your driver’s license or a utility bill. A good idea is to have an IRS IP PIN, which is an identification number that will protect you from fraud.
Several major online poker sites are subject to strict regulations. These regulations limit the risks a site can take with client money. In addition, the sites are required to conduct rigorous testing. Currently, the sites can accept players from anywhere in the United States. However, some states have passed laws that restrict where the player can participate.
WSOP and 888 are two of the largest poker networks. These sites run large tournament series and offer a wider player base. They also accept players from outside the US.
If you want to play real money games, you’ll need to register and download a poker software client. This software will make your gaming experience more stable, and will let you play multiple tables.
Some online poker sites accept payments in a variety of currencies, while others only accept U.S. dollars. To play on a site that accepts non-US dollars, you’ll need to convert the currency at the time you deposit. Many sites will also allow you to request a withdrawal.
Poker sites can be found in just about any state in the United States. Some of the most popular sites, like PokerStars and Full Tilt, stay in the United States. Others have pulled out of the country in the wake of the 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA).
As a result, the online poker market has been flooded with new and improved sites. Some of these new sites offer sweepstakes, which are games that are not actually played for cash. Other online poker sites only accept players from within a particular state, which means that the games you can play are limited.
Another advantage of playing poker online is that the game plays much faster than the live version. You can also take quizzes and save your hand histories. Also, you will not have to worry about rounding issues if you constantly “top up” your chip stack.
Finally, if you are interested in a more social experience, there are several social poker sites that can provide you with a fun atmosphere. You can also check out Ignition Poker, which features an Anonymous Tables feature. Although these sites do not support Heads-Up Displays, they offer an alternative to live games, which means that you won’t have to listen to players yell at you if they hold up the table.