The popularity of online poker has skyrocketed since the early 2000s. Since 2003, dozens of new poker rooms have sprouted across the Internet, many of which have spawned billions in profit, even without government regulation. Even professional poker players such as Chris Moneymaker have risen to stardom, thanks to the popularity of online poker.
To play online poker, you must first download the poker software to your computer. Most of these downloads only take a few minutes and are virus-free. You can also play no-download poker games at any poker website, but these games may not offer the same features as the full download. This is a necessary step to avoid getting banned from a poker site.
Depending on the type of tournament you’re playing, you should adapt your strategy accordingly. You should have a plan in place for each street of the tournament. For example, if you’re in a tournament, you’ll need to assess the strength of the table’s players before deciding which players to pick and where you’ll put your money.
Although US players still feel the effects of the UIGEA, it’s relatively easy to withdraw your money from an online poker site once you have made a deposit. The best way to get your money out of an online poker room is to play with a smaller bankroll than you’d need for a high-limit tournament. A bankroll of 30 dollars is considered an ideal starting point.
Online poker is legal in many states. The first legal poker hand was dealt on April 30, 2013, and most states hope to follow suit. However, the federal government has not yet stepped into the process. Moreover, states must make agreements with each other before sharing the player pool. If more states follow suit, regulating online poker in the US will become possible.
Currently, three online poker websites operate within the US. PokerStars and BetMGM operate in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. In addition, WSOP’s network allows online poker within all four US states. Despite the regulations, a few states still do not allow online poker. In such states, players can participate in a sweepstakes-style contest to win cash prizes.
Currently, there are few licensed poker sites within the US, though the number is increasing. Depositing funds to online poker sites is much easier than it was a few years ago, and the withdrawal methods also vary. Besides credit cards, you can also use wire transfers or cheques to withdraw your money. If you’re unsure of the regulations for online poker in your state, it’s best to consult your state’s gaming regulator.
PokerListings is a great resource for finding free online poker tournaments. The site allows players to play anonymously, which protects newcomers from the shark-filled waters of the online poker world. It also lets you avoid Heads-Up Displays, which are used to keep track of players.