Online poker has become very popular for a variety of reasons. It’s easy to play from the comfort of your own home, you can play for real money and it rewards actual skill unlike slots or the lottery. There are many different stakes to choose from and even pros can make a living playing poker online.

The first step to getting started is finding a good poker site with an excellent download client and mobile app. The software is very lightweight and shouldn’t put a huge strain on your computer. Most sites offer a free play option as well.

When you’re ready to start playing for real money it’s important to keep in mind that poker is a game of skill and the best players spend just as much time studying the game as they do playing it. Many of the top pros also invest in poker coaching and networking with other successful professionals. If you’re serious about winning at poker, it is important to create a study environment that’s free of distractions.

While Texas Hold’em is the most common form of the game you can play a lot more poker variants online. Some of the more popular variants include Omaha, 7 Card Stud and Crazy Pineapple. You can find these games and more by searching the lobby for your preferred poker variation.

Most of the popular online poker rooms have a lobby that’s categorized by cash games, tournaments and Sit & Go’s. Many of these sites will also have a special “beginner” tab where you’ll be seated with other players who have opted to play at beginner tables. This dramatically levels the playing field for new players and can help you avoid wasting your bankroll on bad beats.

Another important online poker strategy is understanding how your position in the hand can affect your chances of winning. If you’re the first to act, for example, you’ll have less information about how strong your opponents are and might get raised or re-raised frequently. If you’re last to act, on the other hand, you’ll have a better idea of your opponents’ strength and might be able to steal some blind bets with a cheeky raise of your own.

It’s also important to understand the rules of poker etiquette when you’re playing poker online. This includes not mucking hands and not telling other players about your hand or strategy. It’s also a good idea to never tell other players about your previous hands and only chat with the other players at your table if it’s necessary.

Finally, it’s a good idea to deposit and withdraw funds using methods that are secure. Most poker sites support a wide range of deposit options including credit and debit cards, pre-paid cards, e-checks and third party eWallets. In addition, you can often use wire transfers and good old fashioned paper cheques. Depending on the poker site and your region, some options may be more available than others.