The basics of online slot are the same as they have ever been: You deposit money, spin the reels and check to see if you’ve won. There are plenty of different ways to play, though, and the rules can vary widely.

One difference is that while physical slots have mechanical parts, those inside online ones work entirely by software. This software is run by Random Number Generators that determine which symbols display on the reels at the end of a spin. The RNG is tested and certified by independent agencies to ensure that the results cannot be tampered with by either online casinos or players.

While online slots have many similarities to traditional ones, they also offer new features that can help you win more money. For example, they often feature wilds and scatters to increase your chances of lining up three or more matching symbols. And, if you’re playing a progressive jackpot slot, you could walk away with a huge payout!

In addition, some online casinos allow you to play free games. This is a way to get you used to the game before you start betting real cash. It doesn’t cost the casino anything, and they figure if you have enough fun with their slot machines, you might become a paying customer in the future.

Other differences include the pay tables, which contain more information than on a traditional slot machine. These pay tables can help you choose the best bet for your bankroll, and they can give you an idea of how much the slot pays out on average. Some of them even offer a table that shows how long it has been since the last jackpot win.