Online casinos, also known as virtual casinos or Internet casinos, are online versions of traditional casinos. They let gamblers play casino games through the Internet. Today, online casinos are one of the most popular forms of online gambling. Online casinos have a wide range of games and many of the same rules and payout percentages as land-based casinos.

To prevent cheating and theft, casinos employ elaborate surveillance systems. Cameras in the ceiling and around every table monitor patrons. The videos are recorded and can be reviewed after the fact. Moreover, every slot machine payout is determined randomly using computer chips. As a result, casinos are highly unlikely to lose money if a cheating patron wins large sums.

A casino is similar to a public amusement park, where customers can buy the chance to make $1 instantly into $2 by wagering money. The most popular games include slot machines and table games. These casino games provide billions of dollars in profits to U.S. casinos each year. Many casinos also feature live entertainment events.

Casinos also offer free comps to players to encourage them to gamble. While most casinos charge a commission on winnings, this is usually less than one percent. A casino can adjust the payout to make it more profitable for players.