Online poker is a skill-based game of chance with an emphasis on strategy. The best online poker sites feature a variety of games, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha, as well as tournaments with small buy-ins. They also offer fast and safe withdrawals, support a wide range of payment methods, and adhere to responsible gambling standards.

To get started, select an online poker site and download its software or app (if applicable). Create an account by providing a valid email address and creating a screen name. Once you have created an account, you can then choose to deposit funds and begin playing. Ensure you only use one account; using multiple accounts is illegal and can result in a ban from the site.

Managing your bankroll is an important aspect of online poker, particularly for new players. This involves setting a budget, understanding the game as entertainment rather than a money-making opportunity, and monitoring your wins and losses.

Online poker quickly became a popular form of gambling following Chris Moneymaker’s 2002 World Series of Poker win. Its popularity continued to grow as more states legalized and regulated the game. However, the industry suffered a setback in 2011 when the Federal Government indicted a number of executives from Full Tilt Poker for violating anti-money laundering and UIGEA laws. The resulting lawsuits forced many poker sites to close their doors. The industry regained momentum when Nevada and New Jersey merged their player pools and Pennsylvania moved closer to legalizing the game.