To play online poker, you need to download the poker software onto your computer. The poker software is small and will not take much of your computer’s memory. Most poker websites offer no download games, but these games do not offer the same features. If you want to play poker but are hesitant to download the software, there are some good alternatives.

One big advantage of online poker is that the tables’ limits are significantly lower than those at traditional casinos. These websites are able to offer low limits because the marginal cost to open a table is negligible. Some sites have limits as low as $.01, while the lowest limits at brick-and-mortar casinos are around $2.

In the United States, there are several states where online poker is legal. Currently, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Michigan, and Delaware are among the states where players can play online poker. More states are expected to follow suit in the coming years. If you live in one of these states, you can play online poker and win cash prizes.

Another advantage of online poker is that it can be played at any time. Whether you are looking for a casual game or a high stakes tournament, you’ll be able to find a game that suits your needs. Many poker websites also offer free games. These free games are a good way for newcomers to learn the rules of the game.

There are disadvantages to playing online, however. Some people have reported experiencing more bad beats online than at live games. This is especially true in smaller stakes, where more players are likely to call with sub-par hands. In addition, because online poker games are played at lower stakes, bad beats can outdraw better hands.

While there are few licensed poker sites, the number of these sites is increasing. Depositing money on poker websites is also easier than in the past. Withdrawals can be done via cheque or wire transfer. It is important to note that some states do not allow online poker. However, it is possible to play poker legally in these states.

Another difference between live and online poker games is the speed of play. Live games are much slower and the player pool is smaller than online games. This is an advantage for many online players. Online players can deal with 60 or more hands per hour, and even more if the game is shorthanded. In addition, online players can play multiple tables at once.

When playing online poker, it is important to track your results. This will help you know which hands are losing and which ones you should be winning. Luckily, most online poker sites offer this feature. Before and after each session, check your session stats to see if you’ve won or lost. Pay close attention to your win rate, the number of flops you’ve seen, and the amount of times you’ve reached showdown. This can help you win big pots.