Poker is one of the most popular games online. It’s a social game, you can play for real money or for free and there’s a lot to learn.

First, you need to find a trustworthy site with a good reputation. Look for a site that offers secure software and customer support, including email and FAQs, live chat and a phone number. It’s also a good idea to choose a site that uses SSL encryption to protect your personal information.

Next, you need to sign up for an account. It’s usually a fast and easy process, and you can do it from your computer or mobile device.

During this sign-up process, you’ll need to enter your name, date of birth and address. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized players from signing up under your name.

Once you’ve completed the sign-up process, you can start playing for real money at your chosen poker site. It’s important to read the terms and conditions before depositing, as many sites will have specific restrictions.

If you’re a beginner, it’s a good idea to check out a site with “beginner” tables. These are often filled with softer players, so you’ll have more chances to win without having to face too many tougher opponents.

If you’re a beginner, it’s also a good idea to download and use a poker tracking program like PokerTracker. It’s a great way to collect and analyze your stats while you’re playing, and it will give you an instant insight into what areas of your game need work.