Online poker is a game of cards played over the internet. The game is regulated in some states and the industry has become very profitable. The game was first introduced in the United States in 1997 and it has since exploded in popularity. There was once a time when many professional live players stayed away from the online game but now most top players play both live and online.

The online poker market is controlled by state laws and it’s not possible to play for real money unless you’re in one of the states that regulate the game. Online poker sites are a business and they’re looking to attract new customers with lucrative bonuses and promotions. This includes free poker games and tournaments. In addition, online poker sites offer a wide variety of payment methods that include credit and debit cards, e-wallets and even Bitcoin.

There is a lot of competition in the online poker space and it’s not uncommon for players to switch between different sites. It’s important to look for a poker site that offers a variety of bonuses and has a good reputation.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the software used by an online poker site. It’s best to choose a site that uses high-quality software, has fast loading times and has a sleek user interface. It should also allow players to customize their settings and have a secure payment gateway.

Some online poker sites use proprietary software while others use third-party software. The latter is more reliable and provides a better experience. However, it’s important to note that both types of software have their pros and cons. The best way to decide which one is right for you is by reading reviews and playing some hands on a demo account before making a deposit.

It’s also a good idea to sign up for a newsletter or blog that updates you on the latest in the world of online poker. This will help you stay informed on major events and legislative progress. You can also follow the progress of a particular state as it works towards regulating the game.

There was once a time when there was a very clear distinction between “live” and “online” poker players. This was due to the fact that many live pro players shunned online play and complained that it wasn’t real poker. These days, there is much more overlap between the two and it’s not unusual for a top player to be equally adept at both online and live poker.