A casino is a public place where a variety of games of chance can be played and gambling is the primary activity. It’s more than just a gambling joint; it often adds restaurants, free drinks and stage shows to its lineup to help draw customers.

Casinos have to deal with large amounts of money, so there’s always the temptation for patrons and staff to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. That’s why casinos spend a lot of time and money on security. Security starts on the floor, with dealers watching over the cards or dice closely to ensure no one is palming, marking or switching. Table managers and pit bosses have a more sweeping view of the tables and can spot betting patterns that might signal cheating. And surveillance rooms filled with banks of monitors offer a high-tech “eye-in-the-sky” that can be focused on suspicious patrons.

But not all casinos are created equal. The best ones are well-established, trusted and secure. They have great bonuses and rewards, as well as top-notch customer support. And they have the proper licensing and certifications to back them up. If you’re looking for the best casino online, look for these features: