An online casino allows players to gamble on a variety of different games from the convenience of their computer or mobile phone. Online casinos are often licensed by reputable regulatory bodies and adhere to strict responsible gambling and player protection measures. They also feature games that are regularly tested to ensure they’re fair and provide dependable payouts if players win.

Whether you’re looking for an online casino that offers a wide selection of video slots, table games or live dealer tables, you can find one that meets your needs by comparing their bonuses, VIP programs and customer support options. You should also look for a secure internet connection, and make sure your personal details are protected by SSL encryption.

In the early days of internet gambling, online casinos offered downloadable casino programs that allowed you to play casino games on your computer without using a web browser. These programs ran on your desktop computer and connected to the casino’s servers over a secure connection, which made them more reliable than playing on a web browser. The only drawback was that you couldn’t log in to your account from a friend’s computer.

Many online casinos offer bonuses to entice new players and reward loyalty. These can range from money, credit and free tournament entry to event tickets and merchandise. However, it’s important to set limits on how much you’re willing to spend and stick to them. You should also take regular breaks and play responsibly, as gambling can become addictive.