Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced poker player, playing online is a great way to have fun. You can find free games, friendly stakes, and a range of different poker variations. There are also real money apps for iOS and Android devices. You can play as long as you want, and you don’t even have to leave your house to do it.

Before you can start playing, you need to sign up for an online poker account. To do this, you will need your full name, date of birth, and address. Some sites will also ask you to verify your age. If you’re younger than 18, you’ll need to provide a proof of age such as a utility bill.

Once you’ve signed up for an online poker account, you’ll have to create a bankroll. Your bankroll should be sufficient to cover any potential losses. However, if you think that you can make more money in a given amount of time, you might want to invest in a higher stake.

Once you’ve created your bankroll, you should find a virtual bank account that has a large customer base. This will allow you to maximize your profits per hour of play. If you’re just starting out, it’s smart to play with a solid game, but you can always expand your starting hand range. A strong hand will reduce the number of sticky situations you encounter, making it easier to play pots. Likewise, a marginal hand will help you call pre-flop in a late position.

When you play poker online, it’s important to keep an eye on the odds. This means the ratio of the pot size to the cost of calling. Knowing this will help you decide whether to call or fold. If you’re in a position where you know you’re likely to be beat, don’t play a hand.

The best strategy for winning online is to understand the rankings. For example, you may have a strong pair of 2s, but an opponent has a set of 8s and a pair of kings. In that situation, you’ll want to try and hit your trips to disguise your weak hand.

One of the most important things to do when playing poker online is to network with other players. You’ll be able to find poker pros who will offer advice, tips, and strategies to improve your game. It’s also a good idea to sign up for a poker training site. This will help you learn how to bluff without seeing your face.

Another helpful tip is to use tracking software. Some poker websites allow you to overlay an online poker table on your screen, which will show you how often opponents fold. This will help you determine whether your opponents are playing a strong hand or a weak one. If you’re a new poker player, you can learn a lot about your opponents by using this method. It’s also important to remember that poker is a game of skill, and it can take years to develop your skills.