If you’re interested in playing online poker, there are a few things you should keep in mind. You’ll want to find a regulated site that’s licensed by a state gaming commission and regularly inspected and monitored. A legal US poker site will also use SSL encryption to protect player information and funds. Additionally, reputable sites offer numerous ways to help players with their concerns and questions.

Once you’ve found a trustworthy poker site it’s time to start playing for real money. Most reputable poker sites have a categorized lobby that includes Cash Games, Tournaments and Sit & Go’s as well as any other unique format games the site runs. There are also usually beginner tables available where players will only be seated with other players that classify themselves as beginners. This drastically levels the playing field for new players and helps them get used to the speed of the games.

It’s important to study poker strategy in order to improve your game. Many poker books and online articles are available that will teach you the fundamentals of the game. However, the best way to learn is by playing. It’s a lot easier to understand the rules of poker when you see them in action, and you’ll quickly pick up on things like frequencies and EV estimation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has a lot of recreational and professional players that normally prefer live casinos or clubs shifting their attention to the internet. This shift has led to a spike in traffic at many reputable online poker sites.