A casino is a place where people can gamble and play games of chance. These games often include craps, roulette and baccarat as well as poker and video poker. Unlike horse racing or boxing, where patrons wager against each other, most casino games have a built in statistical advantage for the house (or the owner). This advantage is called the house edge. Casinos generate revenue by charging customers a commission on their winning bets, known as the vig or rake. Casinos also give out complimentary items to players, known as comps.

Casinos have a variety of security measures to protect their customers. Most casinos use cameras to monitor their gambling floor. This allows them to quickly spot any suspicious activity. Casinos also use electronic systems to supervise their table games. This technology can include “chip tracking,” where betting chips have a microcircuitry that interacts with computerized systems to monitor the exact amounts wagered minute by minute and warn staff of any anomalies. In addition, some tables have specially designed electronic wheels to detect tampering or any other mechanical problems.

Casinos make money by drawing large crowds of gamblers and offering them a variety of amenities to keep them there, such as free food and drinks. They also offer perks, such as discounted hotel rooms and show tickets. This attracts a certain type of gambler: the high roller, who spends more than average and may even gamble in special rooms that are separate from the main casino.