Linux Poker

Currently, many people are choosing a Linux-based computer system rather than Windows. Linux is an operating system in which the underlying source code can be somewhat easily modified and redistributed. Linux has been known to be used in devices ranging from watches and cell phones all the way to supercomputers. While not as simple to use or intuitive as Windows, Linux can be a welcome alternative for anyone with some advanced computing experience.

Because of the popularity of Windows, most online poker web sites use Windows-based software that will not function on a Linux system. However, people who use Linux still have online poker options. First of all, a player can participate at a poker site that offers Java games that do not require downloading any software. Another option is to use a process called Dual booting where Windows is installed on part of a Linux-based system. A great way to enjoy all the options of a major poker site on a Linux computer is to use Wine.

Linux Poker Using Java

Perhaps the easiest and quickest way to play online poker using Linux is to participate in a Java-based game. Java is a common programming language that is used to allow computers of every different type to run its programs. Java is included from the factory on many computers, but it can also be easily downloaded if your computer doesn’t have it. Java-based games allow a player to start playing instantly without having to download the poker site’s software, which is more than likely Windows-based.

Websites that offer poker games using the Java platform include: Absolutepoker.com, Partypoker.com, Pacificpoker.com, and Hollywoodpoker.com, as well as a handful of others. These websites have an “instant play” or “no download” link that will take you to a poker room running on Java. In these rooms, a Linux user will not have to obtain any of the typical Windows software to play, in fact, players will not usually have to download anything if Java is installed.

Instant, no-download, Java-based games will get any Linux user straight into the action, however, the actual poker games might not be exactly the same as the typical Windows-based games. Smaller features such as all-in percentages and table sorting might not be available. Also, the graphics will probably be less defined and more basic.

Linux Poker Using Dual Boot

Many people who use Linux are more than likely trying to stay away from Microsoft products. Some people are of the opinion that Microsoft software is monopolistic and unnecessarily bloated with useless features. However, for any Linux user who wants to participate in an online poker room and enjoy all the benefits that Windows users get, they will probably have to succumb to using Windows in some aspect. One of the ways that a Linux user can play in a fully-realized online poker room is to dual boot their system.

Dual booting is a process by which a Linux-based computer runs Windows as well. This is often referred to as “partitioning” or “splitting” the hard drive. Dual booting is slightly risky, as some files can end up being lost or corrupted during the process. It is highly recommended that anybody who wants to partition their hard drive follow precise steps and possibly seek guidance from somebody who has done it before. A comprehensive guide to dual booting can be found at Redhat.com/docs/manuals/linux/RHL-9-Manual/install-guide/ch-x86-dualboot.html. Once the hard drive is partitioned, the Windows section can be used to download and run the software from any online poker site.

Linux Poker Using Wine

Perhaps the best way for a Linux user to play at an online poker site is to use Wine. Wine, which stands for “Wine Is Not an Emulator,” is an application for Linux-based systems that allows Windows software to be executed. Wine is available to anyone, and can be downloaded for free. You can try using Wine with any poker site’s software, but not every site will work. Luckily, two of the biggest and most reputable poker portals have developed software that is intended to work especially with Wine. These poker sites are Fulltiltpoker.com and Pokerstars.com. Both of these web sites are known for having a huge client base, poker training materials, and many different styles of poker. Professional poker players have been known to make appearances at both of these sites. So while guaranteed poker options for Wine users are few, at least they are some of the best.

The process for using Wine at a poker site is fairly simple. Go to the Wine download webpage and choose the version of Linux that you are running. After you have chosen your Linux system, you should be given detailed instructions about installing Wine, which will probably involve pasting commands into the terminal. You may also have to download an installer. Then, simply go to either Pokerstars.com or Fulltiltpoker.com and download their software installation program. This file can then be dragged into the Windows folder that Wine created. This should install the poker software on your computer, as well as create a desktop icon.