To play online poker, you will need to download poker software to your computer. This software only needs a small amount of memory and shouldn’t take too long to download. Many online poker sites also offer no-download games, which you can play with virtual chips, but these don’t have all of the features of a download.
It’s important to choose a reliable site that offers safe games. A reputable online poker site won’t risk its reputation, cash flow, or legal status by allowing players to cheat. They have enough to lose without compromising their reputation, and it is in their best interests to keep their players safe. This makes it more important than ever to be a responsible poker player.
The popularity of online poker has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic wiped out most live gaming venues worldwide. The outbreak also forced many unlicensed gambling venues to close, leaving a significant shortage of options. As a result, many casual players turned to online poker as a substitute for live gambling. In a single day, many operators reported seeing double or more traffic than before.
In the US, online poker is still illegal in most states. However, players can access offshore online poker sites without fear of legal consequences. In fact, only four states currently allow players to participate in legal online poker.