Poker is one of the most beloved card games in the world. It is a game of strategy, skill and, of course, luck. Those who are good at the game are well aware that luck is a significant factor in the long run, but the best players understand that a lot of their success comes down to preparation and planning.

Unlike live poker, which requires you to be at a casino or cardroom, playing poker online can be done anytime and anywhere. All you need is a computer or smartphone with a decent internet connection to play. You can do it from your office, on the train or at your Gran’s house. You can also do it from the comfort of your own home, while you’re on a break at work or even when you are bored.

If you’re looking to try out the game for free before investing your own money, most poker sites will offer a variety of freeroll tournaments that cost nothing to enter. Many of these tournaments offer real-money prizes or tickets to other tournaments. This is a great way to build your bankroll without risking any of your own money and it’s also a great place to meet other poker players.

When you’re ready to start playing for real money, most poker sites will require that you provide a photo ID and proof of address. These documents are used to verify your identity and help protect you from fraud. Depending on the site, they may also ask for additional documentation such as a utility bill in your name at your registered address.

Most people prefer to play poker online rather than at a live casino or cardroom for several reasons. Some find the game less intimidating and it’s easier to avoid unwanted attention and criticism from other players at a table. Other players prefer the speed of online poker, where hands are dealt more quickly and it’s possible to multi-table (advanced players only).

Another benefit is that you can learn and hone your skills more easily in an online environment. There are a number of resources and tools available that can help you become a better player, including online discussion forums, training websites and strategy videos. In addition, there are a variety of poker odds calculators that can help you determine the chances of winning or losing any given hand.

Whether you prefer to play poker online or in a live casino or cardroom, it’s important to have a short memory and not dwell on the bad beats, coolers and suckouts. Instead, remember to keep working on your game and always strive for improvement. It’s the only way to succeed in this game. Just like in any other field, persistence pays off.