Poker Online is a game where players wager against other people over the internet. It used to be a hobby played in smoke filled bars and casinos but in the early 2000s the internet advanced and secure poker sites could hold and wager real money. This allowed for a major influx of money that led to professional players and high-stakes games.

The first thing players should do is ensure that the poker site they choose is legitimate and safe. This can be done by checking the sites regulation status and making sure their software is tested for integrity. It is also important to check the sites reputation and read reviews. A reputable poker site should not cheat its players but this is something that can happen and is a risk of playing online.

A good way to reduce this risk is by using poker tracking software which can be downloaded from a number of different sites. These programs can provide a heads up display (HUD) of all your opponents statistics and help you find leaks in your own game. They can also save and sort hand histories and calculate odds and equity for your opponents.

Many poker sites offer sign-up bonuses that can be quite substantial. These usually come in the form of a deposit match bonus up to a certain amount or free tournament tickets and can be a great incentive to join a site. It is a good idea to shop around for the best deals as third party poker sites can often offer better promotions.