Options for Linux Poker Sites
The most frequently used method for Linux enthusiasts to play online poker is via a free software program called WINE. The compatibility program provides the opportunity to download any online poker site as if using Windows, as WINE configures to the latest version of Windows in order to opt for a smooth download from any online poker site.
There are mixed reviews with WINE from poker players. Some say it mimics the Windows version of their favorite poker online and provides a fairly smooth experience with few bumps. Others have the opposite reaction, saying that the quality of the game is lower than even the instant-play version and doesn’t have all of the features that a regular Windows download offers.
Linux players should try it for themselves to see what works best for their operating system as it mixes with WINE and their favorite poker site.
Another option for Linux poker players is to dual-boot the computer with any of a number of programs and run Windows for the cleanest download and application of online poker from most sites like PokerStars and Bodog. Many Mac users also use the dual-boot option and prefer it to anything else, as it allows them to use the operating system of their choice for everything but online poker, offers the best version of online poker via download, and is fairly easy to do for the experienced computer user.
Finally, there is the option to access most top online poker sites via the instant-play option. This can be used via most web browsers, and sites like 888poker offer impressive poker options for those who choose not to download. Many new players are opting to save space on their devices and choose not to download programs if possible, especially those playing recreational poker and not on a regular basis.
With that said, most users prefer to download online poker if possible.
Importance of Connection and Security
People who use Linux are already well aware of the need for safety and security when doing anything online, much less playing real-money poker online. By establishing an account, depositing and withdrawing funds, and playing online for any substantial lengths of time, Linux players know that they are at risk for hackers and other cyber-crime activities. However, those literate in Linux are also all too mindful that their choice of operating system is one of the safest for those types of transactions.
Of course, with any online poker activities, it is important to have the best internet connection possible and always use a server limited to a relatively small number of people and one that requires a password for use. Public wi-fi is always discouraged when playing real-money online poker, and even the play-money sites are not recommended if account names and passwords resemble those of any real-money accounts.
System Requirements for Linux Poker
Some top online poker sites do offer downloads for Linux, but most operators simply suggest options for Linux users. For example:
- PokerStars does not offer a native Linux version and has “no plans to develop one at this time” but suggests the late-2005 WINE release v.0.9.1 or later.
- Bodog suggests using Flash or HTML5 online poker access, as the WINE download “can be a frustrating task” but does run smoothly once installed.
What are the Best Sites to Join?
With all of the latest technology available, today’s online poker sites tend to be compatible with PCs and Mac products, iPhones and Androids, smartphones and tablets, and everything in between. Linux is one that has been examined by all online poker operators, as it does remain popular, but the efforts to bring every platform current with every release for the few dedicated Linux users remaining has proven to be too time and money consuming for most.
Even so, operators do offer poker players options for using their poker sites via instant-play options or the use of the third-party WINE program as assistance. Further, most of the best online poker sites today provide help via customer support technicians that can be of the most help and even talk customers through the WINE process and then the download of that poker site.
The most popular poker sites want to work with every player to make sure they can access their particular poker tables. Linux players, therefore, are welcomed by the top poker operators in most jurisdictions around the world, especially Europe, Canada, and America.
