Online poker is an amazing game. It is a game of chance, but it also requires a large amount of skill. Players can win big sums of money, even become millionaires. The game is played worldwide by people from all walks of life, and there are many ways to play. It is possible to make a good living from the game, but it takes dedication and a lot of hard work.

To get started, you will need a reliable internet connection and a computer. You will then need to sign up for an account with the poker website of your choice. This process will involve providing some personal information and a secure method for depositing funds. Some poker sites may also require documentation to verify your identity. This is common and a necessary step to ensure the safety of your financial information.

Once you have an account, you can begin playing poker for real money. It is recommended to start small, and only play stakes that are comfortable for you. This will help you avoid getting too emotional about the ups and downs of poker, and it will allow you to focus on improving your skills.

It is also important to remember that the variance in online poker is much greater than in live games. It is not uncommon to go on 20, 30, or even 50 buy-in downswings. However, the key to success is focusing on your long-term goals, and refusing to give up on the game.