Online poker is a card game played over the Internet. It follows the same rules as traditional poker, but you compete against other players instead of a dealer or an artificial intelligence. You can play in cash games and tournaments. Some sites also offer a live-dealer option. To get started, register with an online poker site and verify your identity by sending a copy of your government ID or other documentation. Then, choose a deposit method and add funds to your account balance.
When selecting an online poker site, look for a variety of banking methods that allow you to add and withdraw funds easily. Many of these options work both ways, but you should always check with the poker site to see what the minimum and maximum deposit amounts are and if there are any fees per transaction. You should also check out the time frame for receiving withdrawals, as some can take a few days.
In addition to banking, look for a site that offers the best bonuses and promotions for both newcomers and loyal players. These may include welcome bonuses, freerolls, or rakebacks, which are rebates of some or all of the money that poker sites collect in a real-money pot.
The number of online poker players is growing quickly, thanks to the ease and convenience of playing from a home computer or mobile device. However, there is still a lot of room for growth in the market, especially as the technology continues to advance and more states legalize online gambling.