PokerStars are one of the biggest online poker sites, and have been in operation for 20 years. Although they no longer give good rewards to serious online poker players, they are still a decent site for newer players (and players who want to play against them). There are plenty of other online poker sites that offer better rewards, but few sites can match PokerStars for volume of play or software quality.
Below you will find our step-by-step instructions on how to download and install PokerStars for Windows, as well as how to register your account and make your first deposit.
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To download PokerStars, follow our simple step-by-step instructions. Note that the download, registration and deposit instructions on this page are specifically written for PC, but the process will be almost identical for Mac. In the future, we will write detailed instructions for downloading and installing the PokerStars app (for both Android and iOS).
STEP #1: Download the PokerStars Windows Software
Click the button below to download the PokerStars client software.
Within seconds, a download box like the one below should appear:
Click the Save File button in the "Opening PokerStarsInstall.exe" download box. If the Save File button is greyed out, just click anywhere inside the download box and it should be available to click. Make note of where you save the file.
STEP #2: Install PokerStars Software on your PC or Laptop
Find the file you just downloaded and double left-click on it to start the installation process.
If asked to "allow this app to make changes to your device", click "Yes".
Select your installation options, choose an install location, agree to the PokerStars End User License Agreement, and click "Install".
Congratulations, you have just downloaded and installed the PokerStars poker software onto your computer! If you are finding these instructions useful, why not share them with a friend?
Now that you have downloaded the PokerStars software, setting up an account will be easy! Just follow our step-by-step guide and you will playing online poker for crappy rewards in a matter of minutes!
STEP #1: Launch PokerStars
If you have just finished installing the PokerStars software, it has probably automatically launched and you currently have the client open to the PokerStars login screen.
Otherwise, you can simply double left-click the PokerStars icon on your desktop or from your Start Menu.
STEP #2: Create a New PokerStars Account
At the bottom of the login window, click "Create your Stars Account now >>".
Enter your Stars ID. This will be your login name, as well as your nickname on the tables. Click "Change Image" to select an avatar to represent you on the tables. You can select from a wide range of images including flags and holiday images, or can upload your own image. Select a password and enter it twice. Click "Next" once that's done.
Enter an email address and select your country of residence. Note that you are allowed to create a PokerStars account from restricted countries such as the United States, you will not be allowed to play real money online poker from these countries.
Note that you only have to select the bottom 2 options and do not need to "consent to receive details of special offers...".
Click the green "Create Account" button and your account will be created!
How to Deposit to your PokerStars Account
If you want to play online poker for real money with PokerStars, you will need to make a deposit. As soon as your account is created, a window will appear giving you the option to make your first deposit (and also try to get you to receive their promotional emails).
STEP #1: Open the Cashier
To make a deposit, simply click the green "Make a Deposit" button. If you did not receive this window, or have already closed it, you can also make a deposit by clicking the gold "Cashier" button in the top right corner of the PokerStars client.
Before making a deposit, you will need to validate your email. Simply login to the email you provided when creating your account and follow the instructions.
Once your email has been validated, you can make a deposit using one of several options available from your country (you can see more options by clicking the blue "More Payment Methods" text. Note that you can change the currency and if you do not want to select one of the amounts shown, simply type in the amount you wish to deposit in the "Other" box.
NETELLER and Skrill are both great ways to move money around online (especially if you play poker on multiple sites). If you do not have a NETELLER or Skrill account, you can set one up in a few minutes by clicking the banners below:
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STEP #2: Select a PokerStars Bonus Code
If this is your first deposit with PokerStars, you may enter a bonus code in order to take advantage of one of their two first deposit bonuses.
PokerStars Promo Code: 'THIRTY'
If you make a deposit of at least $20 and use PokerStars bonus code 'THIRTY', you will receive:
If you generate more than $182/year in rake and fees, then you should use the 'STARS600' Poker Stars bonus code. With this bonus code, you receive a 100% matched bonus up to $600.
Once you have entered your PokerStars Bonus Code, simply click the green "Deposit" button.
Congratulations, you are now ready to start playing real money poker with PokerStars. Best of luck at the tables! However, if you want to rely on more than just luck, consider investing in some poker training.
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This makes finding the perfect coach for your preferred game and stakes much easier.
If asked to "allow this app to make changes to your device", click "Yes".
