What happens if you disconnect in online poker?
Internet problems happen. If you disconnect in the middle of a hand, the room’s software keeps playing the game without you — usually by checking when possible and folding when facing a bet. Exact disconnection rules differ by room, so check your room’s help pages.
What usually happens
Section titled “What usually happens”- Your normal action timer runs, then your time bank if you have one. See time bank.
- If you haven’t reconnected, your hand is checked if possible, otherwise folded.
- You’re often sat out for the next hands until you return.
Most rooms don’t offer “all-in protection” today, so a disconnect when facing a bet usually means a fold.
Cash games vs tournaments
Section titled “Cash games vs tournaments”- Cash games: you’ll be sat out; your chips stay on the table for a while, then you may be removed. See sitting out and missed blinds.
- Tournaments: your stack stays in play — you’ll post blinds and antes and fold hands until you return. A long disconnect can blind you down a lot.
How to protect yourself
Section titled “How to protect yourself”- Use a stable connection; on mobile, avoid playing while moving between networks.
- Keep your device charged and close other heavy apps.
- Don’t play important tournaments on unreliable internet.
- If you disconnect, reconnect quickly — most apps reopen your table automatically.
- Keep a note of the time and hand number; contact support if something looks wrong.
Abuse rules
Section titled “Abuse rules”Rooms watch for players who “disconnect” on purpose to avoid tough decisions; this can be treated as cheating. Play fair.
See also poker on your phone and online poker etiquette.
What happens if I disconnect during an online poker hand?
Section titled “What happens if I disconnect during an online poker hand?”Usually your timer and time bank run out, then your hand is checked if possible or folded.
Do I lose my tournament chips if I disconnect?
Section titled “Do I lose my tournament chips if I disconnect?”No, but your stack keeps paying blinds and antes and folding hands until you return.
Is there all-in protection for disconnects?
Section titled “Is there all-in protection for disconnects?”Most rooms don’t offer it today; check your room’s rules.
How can I avoid disconnect problems?
Section titled “How can I avoid disconnect problems?”Use a stable connection, keep your device charged and avoid playing important events on unreliable internet.