Poker has long been a popular pastime in the backs of smoky bars and casinos but online poker has taken it to the next level. Now you can play poker anytime of the day or night for real money against players all over the world in thousands of ring games and tournaments with buy-ins from free up to several thousand dollars. Online poker also rewards actual skill unlike slots or the lottery, another reason why it’s become so popular.

Signing up for an account at an online poker site is a simple process and most sites offer virus-free software that only takes a few minutes to download to your computer or mobile device. After you have signed up you’ll be asked to create a screen name and password that will allow you to log in and start playing. Once you’ve signed up you can choose a table that best suits your skill level and budget and even chat with the other players at the table.

When choosing a poker site look for one that offers great bonuses and promotions, especially ones that are exclusive to their members. These bonuses can help you increase your bankroll and build up a winning streak in the game. However, make sure you check the terms and conditions of these promotional offers before taking advantage of them because they often come with intense rollover requirements.

In addition to the above, a good poker site should offer excellent customer support via multiple channels like email, phone and live chat. Also, they should have an extensive FAQ section to answer any questions you may have.