Online poker is a popular form of gambling that allows players to play poker from the comfort of their homes. The game is regulated and legal in many jurisdictions. It is also increasingly being played on mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets.

A reputable online poker site has a seal or statement that indicates it is a licensed and regulated operator. This is important because the sites are regularly inspected and monitored by commissions, which can keep them out of trouble.

Poker Tracking Software

Most serious poker players use poker tracking software to track their own and other player’s statistics, and to run reports on specific aspects of their games. These software applications often come with a HUD (Heads Up Display), which displays statistics next to each player during a game, updating in real-time.

Tournaments

The biggest money-making opportunity in online poker is in tournaments, since the prize pool is disproportionately top-heavy and a winning hand usually results in a payout. The payouts can be enormous, so it’s a great way to test your skills and see if you can beat the competition.

Support and Customer Service

A dependable online poker site should offer extensive support, from email and FAQ to live chat and a customer service phone number. Offshore operators might not provide this support, so it’s essential to choose a site that is licensed in the jurisdiction you plan to play in.

SSL Encryption

SSL encryption is a security feature that encrypts the information between your computer and a poker website’s servers. This prevents hackers from getting hold of your personal information. A good poker site should also provide a secure environment for you to deposit and withdraw funds, using mainstream deposit and cash-out methods such as PayPal and credit cards.