Online poker is a fun, easy to play and intellectual game that rewards actual skill unlike slots or the lottery. It’s also something you can do for as long as you want, at any time and from the comfort of your own home. This convenience is one of the primary reasons why it’s so popular.

The first step in playing online poker is choosing a site and downloading the software (if applicable). This usually only takes a few minutes and is virus-free for your computer or mobile device. Once the poker client is installed you’ll need to create a player account and choose a screen name. This will be your permanent moniker, so make sure you pick one that you’ll like for the long haul. It’s also important to keep in mind that you can only have one account at a time – multi-accounting is illegal and will result in a permanent ban.

Many online poker sites feature a “beginner” tab or table. This is a great way to level the playing field for new players as they will be seated with other users who have classified themselves as beginners. You’ll generally be able to find a variety of games in this section from No Limit Hold’em to Omaha and Stud poker.

Getting the most out of your game can be difficult when you’re up against some of the sharpest competition in the business. There are a variety of online poker tools that can help you out though, from stat trackers to customizable HUDs. Some of these tools even have built in “hotkeys” and overlays that allow you to stay hyperfocused on the game while you get the data that you need.

There are also a number of online poker coaching and training courses available. These are generally delivered in video format and give you visual representations of the poker basics and strategies that you’ve been learning through your own online research. Some of these courses are free, while others are paid.

Once you’ve got the basic skills down it’s a good idea to take some time and work on your game. A few well spent hours can go a long way towards improving your odds of winning and increasing your bankroll.