Online Poker is a great way to practice your poker skills in a safe and secure environment. It can also be a great source of extra cash. However, you should be aware of the risks before you sign up with an online poker site.
Safety & Security
The best online poker sites are regulated and offer security protocols to protect your personal information and your money. Be sure to check their terms and conditions before signing up. These will include things like deposit limits, minimum wagering requirements and other important details.
Downloading Software
Most poker sites have a desktop client that you can download from their website to access the games. This gives you all of the game types, and allows you to comfortably multi-table (play more than one table at a time). The software also ensures that the games are stable and don’t crash just as you get dealt pocket aces!
Free Games & Tournaments
The top poker sites will offer free games and tournaments to new players. These are a good opportunity to test out their software and make an informed decision about whether they are right for you!
Mobile Apps – Many of the best poker sites also have mobile apps for both Android and Apple (iOS) devices. These are a great way to enjoy the games on your phone or tablet while you’re away from home.
Welcome Bonuses – A good poker site will offer a welcome/sign up bonus, a match bonus and a reload bonus to encourage you to make deposits and play for real money. You can also find special promotions and giveaways.
Different Game Types – You want to choose an online poker site that offers all of the popular types of poker games. These may include cash games, sit and go’s and tournaments. You’ll also want to see whether they have low stakes games and a variety of limits.
Beginner Tables – Most poker sites have beginner tables that are reserved for players who are new to the game. These are usually filled with other beginners, which helps to level the playing field for those who are just starting out.
Learn the Rules & Strategy
You should know all the basics of poker before you start playing for real money. This includes understanding which hand wins in certain situations, and knowing when to fold or take a risk. In addition, you should watch the table dynamics and be aware of how your opponents play their hands so you can decide if it’s worth trying to make a move.
Using Tracking Software
You can use tracking software to keep track of your hand histories and the hands of others at the same table. This information can help you to improve your game and make a more educated decision on how to play each hand.
HUDs – The poker site you choose should offer a heads up display to show your opponents’ hands. This is a helpful tool if you can stay at the same table long enough to gather the hand history and learn their play.