It’s unclear how soon the US will permit online poker. Most states have banned the practice. But there are still some places where you can play. In fact, there are four states that allow you to play poker legally. And these are New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is moving toward online poker regulation and may be the next to join the pool. No timetable has been set yet, but it’s likely that it will happen in the near future.

To play online poker, you’ll first need to download poker software to your computer. The download only takes a few minutes, and most sites are virus-free. Once you have the software, you’ll need to register an account. Note that you can only register one account for each site. Otherwise, you risk being banned from the site.

Then you’ll have to find the right online poker room. There are many types of poker rooms, and you’ll need to find one that’s a perfect fit for your playing style. Some sites cater to recreational players while others are tailored for professional players. PokerStars and Full Tilt, for example, provide a variety of games to suit a variety of skill levels. You can play cash games, tournaments, holdem, or Omaha games. No matter your skill level, there’s bound to be a game suitable for you.

Another benefit to online poker is its simplicity. Online poker sites will notify you when it’s your turn to act. This is a significant benefit over live games, where players can yell at you if you hold up the game. Besides, the game is far less stressful. You don’t have to worry about a raucous crowd or a prickly opponent.

Whether you’re planning to play poker online or just want to make extra money while playing, you need to understand how to handle your bankroll and protect your identity. A solid knowledge of poker strategy can lead to great success. With patience and time, you can earn handsomely through poker. Don’t be afraid to get started.

Once you’re ready to start playing, it’s time to choose a poker site that offers a low-stakes table to learn the game. These games are usually soft enough for beginners to learn the tricks of the trade, and you can also practice for free. Many poker sites offer beginners-only tables that are free to join for the first thirty or so days after you create your account.

Californians can legally play poker online on social or sweepstakes websites. Global Poker, for example, is a popular sweepstakes site that uses virtual currencies as prizes for winning players. The website is free to join and offers both cash games and virtual currency games.