The first step to play poker online is to register and open a virtual bank account. Many poker sites do not accept credit cards, so it is important to choose a virtual bank account that has a large number of customers. You can then use this account to deposit money into the poker site. This account will be used for your winnings and losses.
In order to make the most of your online poker experience, you need to understand the hand rankings and the terminology. Understanding the starting hand rankings can help you make better decisions. In addition, you must learn to play aggressively when necessary. Poker is a game of strategy, and knowing how to apply it can help you win the pot.
Before you decide whether to play poker online, it is important to check your local laws before signing up. In some countries, online poker is illegal. If you live in a state where internet gambling is prohibited, you should look for a different poker site. Some major poker sites are only available in certain countries, so check before you sign up. You can also try smaller regional sites. These sites are fun and offer a tighter community.
In the US, there are only a few licensed poker sites. However, this number is growing. Generally speaking, US players can play poker online as long as they are outside of the states that have banned online gambling. Many of these sites accept players from the US and provide special bonuses to players. You can also deposit and withdraw money via wire transfers and cheque.