When you play poker online it’s important to choose a site that can be trusted. This means checking that the site uses top-of-the-line encryption methods to safeguard your personal information. You should also consider getting an IRS IP PIN, which will help prevent identity theft and protect your tax refunds. In addition, you’ll want to make sure that the site offers a wide variety of tournaments and cash games, has a generous bonus structure, and has great customer support.
You should also look for a site that has easy-to-use software. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s actually one of the most overlooked aspects of online poker. A good user interface can improve your enjoyment of the game, and a bad one can ruin it.
Another consideration is how many players can play at a given table. Ideally, you’ll find a site with tables that allow 10 or less people to play. Any more and the hands simply take too long to play out. You should also pay attention to the minimum and maximum bet amounts that you can place at a given table.
When you play poker online, you can use the software to visualize statistics on your opponents. This can be helpful for spotting fish. In general, you’ll want to watch for tactically naive plays, poorly sized bets, and erratic calling tendencies. It’s also a good idea to learn about pot odds, which are the ratio of the size of the current pot to the cost of your call.