Before you play real money online poker, you should always verify your identity. This includes a social security number, date of birth, full name, and address. This information is typically required for the sign-up process on an online poker site. It is also wise to know your IP PIN, which is used by the IRS to prevent tax return fraud.

To play real money online poker, you must download the necessary poker software to your computer. The download will take up a small amount of memory and shouldn’t take long. You can also play no-download poker games, but they won’t give you the full features of a downloaded game. Before you play online poker, you should learn how to deposit and withdraw your funds.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board regulates online poker sites. It issues licenses to Nevadan gambling websites and conducts regular checks on the online poker sites. This ensures that your money and personal information are safe. Many offshore operators may engage in malicious activities that can impact your personal information, so Nevada gambling regulators are a good way to ensure a safe and reputable online poker site.

Poker games online are much easier to play than live games. When you play online, your computer will notify you when it is your turn to act. This is one advantage over live games, where players might yell at you or call out if you are holding up the game.