Online poker has been around for a long time, but it really took off in the early 2000s when the internet became more widely available and an accountant from Tennessee elevated poker to the status of primetime entertainment. Before that, most people who played poker did so in the back of smoky bars or casinos and while that still accounts for a significant amount of poker play, many more have moved to the comfort of their own homes to enjoy the game.

As a result, there are now plenty of options when it comes to choosing an online poker room. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that the site you’re considering offers what you want.

Choosing an online poker site that is licensed by a reputable authority like the UK Gambling Commission is important. This is because it provides a level of protection for players. It also means that the poker site has to adhere to certain standards in terms of fairness and transparency.

Another aspect to consider when selecting an online poker room is the number of games they offer. Generally speaking, the largest poker sites have the most games available. This is because the competition is stiffer at these sites and they tend to have more players connected at any given time. This, of course, results in more action and more opportunities to win cash.

You should also look for a poker site that offers a wide range of games, including the most popular games like Texas Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha as well as less common ones like 2-7 Lowball, Razz and Badugi. Having a good selection of games will give you more chances to win, even if you’re not the best player in the world.

Finally, a great online poker site will have easy-to-use software. This is an area that can often be overlooked, but a good poker site’s software will make playing the game much easier and more enjoyable.

Another thing to keep in mind when choosing an online poker room is the pay-out speeds. The best poker sites will process withdrawal requests quickly so that you can get your money as soon as possible. This is especially important if you’re a serious poker player who plans to use your winnings to fund other gambling activities. The speed of payouts can vary depending on the payment method you choose and how busy the poker site is at any given time.