Online poker is a game of skill and strategy played with real money. The player places bets and folds according to the game rules, which are typically determined by state gambling laws. In states where the games are legal, strict regulations ensure a fair and safe gaming environment. To play poker, you must have a computer with a stable internet connection and a compatible web browser. There are several different types of online poker: ring games, tournaments and cash games. Some sites offer features like hand history reviews and player statistics to help you improve your skills.
There are a handful of regulated poker markets in the US, most notably in New Jersey and Nevada, with a few others in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Delaware. These sites connect to a global network of other regulated poker rooms, forming the “white market” for online poker. There’s also a gray market where sites operate outside of local jurisdictions but still follow best practices, such as deposit protection and game policing. Finally, there are black markets that operate without any regulation at all, often promising bigger (or juicier) games than regulated ones can.
For many players, the most important decision is whether to play for real money. This is because playing with real money comes with the risk that you can lose it all. If you’re not comfortable with that, there are free-play options available. However, the learning process is significantly faster and more effective when you play with real money on the line.
