Online poker is a card game that can be played for real money or play-money. The first step to getting started in online poker is selecting a reputable platform and creating an account. Then, select a game and begin playing for fun or practice. Some platforms have free games that can be used to learn the rules and strategy of the game without risking any actual money. However, it is important to remember that online poker can be addictive, so it’s best to avoid gambling with real money until you have mastered the game.

Online casinos have grown in popularity with the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people who would otherwise have been in live venues moved to their computers to gamble. This has resulted in a major boom in online poker traffic, and even the biggest online operators have reported a massive increase in overall activity.

While the game of poker is easy to pick up and play, mastering it takes time and effort. It is also crucial to understand the unwritten rules and etiquette of the game, such as respecting your fellow players and avoiding derogatory language. Keeping up with this etiquette will create a positive environment for all players and ensure that the game is fair and enjoyable for everyone.

There is a huge amount of material available for anyone who wants to learn more about online poker, including instructional videos featuring former WSOP champions Scott Clements and Jonathan Little, various tools and games for mobile devices designed to improve your poker skills, hundreds of books, and a seemingly endless list of blogs. Many of these resources are free, but some require a subscription fee to access the material.