One thing that prevents many poker enthusiasts from actually playing the game competitively is their lack of formal game knowledge. Many players whose sole experience is Friday night poker games with the boys are concerned about getting embarrassed if they sidle up to the felt at their local casino. One wonderful good thing about online poker is its anonymity. If you have let your inexperience intimidate you, then online poker rooms will be the perfect place to finally getting some cash game action. Nevertheless, you will discover still a few things you’d be smart to cover before playing poker great online casino gambling agency.

The online Poker Technology

The necessities of playing poker online are simple enough: a computer and an Internet access. Sounds easy right? For the most part it is, but you will discover a number of important exceptions. For one, dial-up is mostly not fast enough to support a full poker software package, and in case you are running the clock out waiting for your cards to load you’re more likely to get booted. Second, not all poker sites support Macs. While Mac-friendly software and no download flash sites are becoming more common, it’s still best to check a poker room’s tech requirements before you make any big plans.

Picking a Poker Room

A misguided majority of first-time poker players give their cash to the very first poker room they find only to later learn that that room is swimming in sharks or which it will not even offer the game they prefer. It’s quick and easy to check out a poker room’s traffic, design and table offerings by loading a flash version of their site. Always review a room before you make your first deposit.

Starting out Playing Poker Online

Once you’ve found a poker room that suits your preferences, the next phase is downloading their software. While a flash version of the site can give you instant access to the action when you are playing away from home, only the downloadable software package gives you access to all player features. Most poker software platforms only take a couple minutes to download; it’s really a small price to pay for the full experience.

After the software is installed, you’ll need a member’s account to start playing. Signing up for an account is free and rarely requires any sensitive information beyond your name, age and address. In case you are preparing to play at the free tables, then this really is the final requirement before playing. Once you’ve confirmed your new account, you’re ready to hit the tables and tourneys.

Depositing / Withdrawing

If you are preparing to play for cash, then you’ll need to make a deposit before you decide to can participate — even in freerolls. Part of your pre-download poker room review process should be looking at payment options. You will need to understand what’s accepted, particularly if you live in a country with anti-gambling legislation that will prevent you from using common options like a bank-account or credit-card. Many online poker players open e-wallet accounts that streamline withdrawals and deposits while adding an extra degree of security to the funds transfer process.