Many people play poker online for fun, while others enjoy it as a way to win money. Regardless of why you play, it’s important to understand that real money is on the line. This means that you could lose your money if you’re not careful, but that’s why it’s important to make sure that you’re comfortable with the risks before depositing any money.

Before you start playing for money, it’s essential to choose a trusted and licensed poker site. This will ensure that your money is safe and that you can have recourse if you ever encounter problems. In addition, a licensed poker site will also be regulated, so you can be confident that the games are fair and backed by a reliable operator.

Once you’re registered, you can then select the type of poker game you want to play. Most sites offer both cash games and tournaments, so there’s something to suit every player. If you’re not ready to put your money on the line, try playing for free first by downloading a poker app.

Another factor to consider when choosing an online poker site is its geographical reach. The more reputable sites have licenses in regulated markets like the UK, Netherlands and Sweden. Others may have a history operating offshore, but have a reputation for fairness and customer support that’s hard to match.