Online poker is a game of strategy and odds that is played over the internet. It is regulated in states where it is legal and has strict consumer protection laws. This ensures that players’ account information and money is safe and secure. Unlike some rogue offshore sites that operate without basic consumer safeguards and are known for cheating, online poker is a legitimate game with a multibillion dollar industry.

To start playing you will need to find a reputable site and download the software. The program is not overly taxing on computer memory and should work well even on older computers. Once downloaded you will need to create an account and pass some checks to be able to play.

After that you can start with some small-stakes tournaments and build up a bankroll. This is important because you can learn the ins and outs of the game without risking too much. Then once you have a steady stream of winnings you can move up in stakes.

Taking regular breaks is also a good idea for any player. This will help you stay focused and avoid making bad decisions when you are stressed. It will also allow you to analyze the game and identify potential weaknesses in your opponents’ games.

If you want to become a better poker player there are many sites that offer training. One of the best is Mechanics of Poker. They have coaching plans that cover the fundamentals of the game as well as more advanced concepts. They have a free membership plan that includes 20 hand quizzes and 10 advanced classes.