Playing Online Poker on Linux

One of the biggest problems for poker playing Linux computer users is the inability to simply visit an online poker site and download the software required to play a simple game of poker. In fact, Linux machines really just aren’t the simplest option for anyone looking to download and play any game or application online. That doesn’t mean it’s not possible. There are a few options available, some more technical and some as simple as heading to a poker site and choosing to play instant-play no download poker games from right inside of your computers’ browser.

There are also options for the Linux Computer / Poker Nerd that are a bit more in depth and offer a different experience altogether.

Poker Sites Linux (Ubuntu) Users can Download

Currently, there are no poker sites that can simply be downloaded onto a Linux OS computer without the use of an application such as Wine. Bookmark this page though, as soon as something changes, we’ll update this article (nearly instantaneously, we’re that good).

Using Java Based Versions of Poker Sites

Most online poker sites offer a completely no download Java or flash based version of their poker software that works great for Mac, Linux and Ubuntu computer users without the use of programs like Wine and Leopard.

The great thing about Java is it doesn’t matter what operating system you are using you can likely play. Thus allowing an alternative to downloading programs that emulate Windows, because for the most part, if Linux users wanted to use Windows they’d use that in the first place!

See browser based instant play sites

Using Wine to Play Poker on a Linux

If the site you want to play poker at on a Linux box doesn’t offer a Java based version then using Wine is going to best free option for getting you there. In fact, pour yourself glass of wine, and begin downloading and installing Wine. Wine is available at http://www.winehq.org.

Wine is computer software that allows Linux, Ubuntu, Debian and users of other less common operating systems to run Windows Software Applications, like online poker rooms, that aren’t compatible with those operating systems.

Using Ubuntu or Debian with Wine to access Poker Sites

If you are using a DEB system, like Ubuntu or Debian, to install Wine you’re going to need root access for starters to download new software.

If you’re not confident with computers and this stuff doesn’t make any sense to you then our advice is that you try an instant play no download poker site. But, if you’re looking to learn and perhaps get a migraine, there are FAQ’s and help files on the Wine website that will get you through it as long as you have the aptitude required to absorb the instructions.

One of the greatest things about using Wine is that the software is open source. There are several million people all around the world using Wine to run a myriad of computer programs and the software’s still under active development. It’s written by volunteers, the people in the technical community that want to use it actually write it and make it work the way they need it to work.

There are supported versions of Wine for sale that come with tech support and other neat perks. Once you’ve downloaded and installed Wine you’ll need to simply download and install your poker client then shuffle up and deal.