Internet casinos have exploded in recent years, and their popularity is only expected to grow. But what is the true size of the online gambling industry? While the U.S. Department of Justice, National Gambling Impact Study Commission and Christiansen Capital Advisors have tried to estimate the industry’s size, they all agree that the growth has been phenomenal. In 1997, only fifty to sixty Internet casinos operated in the Caribbean, earning around $300 million to $350 million annually. In 2000, there were around 700 sites.

Although online gambling is legal at the federal level, each state has its own laws governing its activities. In the United States, gambling is broadly defined as sporting events, games of chance, and games of skill. There are varying levels of regulation, and twenty states allow residents to bet on sports events or play poker games online. Regardless of the state, legalizing and regulating online gambling is not as difficult as many believe. The process is quick and easy, and the rewards are significant.

To legally participate in online gambling, you’ll need a computer with access to the internet. Earlier, these sites supported PCs running Windows. As time went on, they gradually added Mac compatibility. Today, online gambling sites work on virtually any computer, laptop, or smartphone. However, it’s important to have an internet connection, as you may experience slow connections in some countries. Fortunately, most gambling sites have mobile versions that allow people to play games on the go.