When you play poker online, you use the same rules as in a real-life casino but on your computer screen. To get started, register at a site that offers the game you want to play. When selecting a site, check that it is licensed and uses top-of-the-line encryption to protect your information. Also, make sure that it accepts your preferred banking methods.

While it is fun to bluff in online poker, it is best to keep it to a minimum at the beginning. Your opponents will quickly pick up on your betting patterns, and they may adjust their strategy accordingly. If you are serious about the game, consider joining a training site, networking with other players and brutally analyzing your play after every session.

Another thing to look for when choosing a poker site is player traffic. This accomplishes three important things: it keeps the games active, gives you a greater chance of finding weak opponents and acts as a tacit endorsement of the poker site’s trustworthiness.

Lastly, make sure that the poker site offers a wide variety of different types of games and tournaments. Texas Hold’em is the most popular variant, but other players may prefer Pot Limit Omaha or traditional 7-card stud.

To sign up for an account, you must provide your name, address, phone number and date of birth. You will then need to create a username and password and agree to the terms of service. Once you have completed this step, you can deposit funds to begin playing. The best online poker sites accept multiple banking options, including credit/debit cards and e-wallets.