Online poker is a game of skill that can be played from anywhere with a computer, phone or tablet. It can be played for as little or as much money as you want, and it offers the same fun, thrills and excitement that live poker does, but from the comfort of your own home.

Playing poker online is safe and secure, but you do need to be aware of some important things before you start playing. This includes choosing a poker site that is licensed and regulated by an independent gaming commission, and making sure they have software regularly inspected by a third-party security firm. It’s also a good idea to read some reviews of the sites you are considering so you can get an idea of what other players have thought about them.

Find a great poker website

You can play a variety of different games on top poker websites, and it is often possible to find free games for beginners that aren’t too difficult to understand. In addition, many top poker websites offer promotions and bonuses that will give you a little extra cash to play with.

Use tracking tools

Tracking is a must when you are first starting out as it will show you how often you win and lose. Most poker sites will have this feature, and it can really help you become a more efficient player. It will allow you to see which hands are winning most frequently and when you’re losing the most. You can also use a heads-up display (HUD) to help you keep track of your opponents.

Learn to win at one table

Before you move on to more advanced games you need to build up a solid foundation. Ideally you’ll play a few low stake cash games and Sit & Gos before moving on to higher stakes. You can also play in some tournaments to test your skills and determine if you have what it takes to win big.

Make sure the poker room you choose has good customer service and a great reputation for delivering on its promises. The best poker rooms have experienced team members available around the clock who can answer your questions and help you through any problems that arise.

Use a time-bank for your first few sessions

If you’re new to online poker it can be a little daunting to be faced with so many hands per hour. Thankfully, most of the best poker sites have time-bank features that will give you more time to make your decisions.

Beginners can also benefit from programs like Table Ninja and Auto Hot Key that will increase your efficiency by automating key actions, such as raising 1.5x the big blind or registering for a tournament. You can also use these programs to speed up the process of multi-tabling, ensuring that you don’t waste time with too many tables at once.

Play in small fields

When you’re first getting started, it can be a good idea to find a poker site with smaller fields. This will ensure you’re not competing with a lot of other players and that you’ll have a better chance of winning.