A casino is a facility for certain types of gambling. It may also be known as a gaming house, gambling hall, or a gaming room. Casinos can be located in cities, islands, states, or even countries. Most casinos offer games of chance that involve a degree of skill or luck. The odds of winning or losing vary depending on the game, and the house always has an advantage over the players.

There are three general categories of casino games: gaming machines, table games, and random number games. Gaming machines are machine-based games that do not require the involvement of casino employees. Table games include blackjack and other card games, and are conducted by croupiers. Random number games are based on the selection of random numbers from a computer or other device.

Licensed casinos must pass stringent tests to ensure that they protect player information and money. This includes using secure payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, as well as employing robust data storage protocols that comply with local regulations. Additionally, they must provide verification that their random number generators are regularly tested by an independent third party.

In modern times, casino security is usually divided into a physical force and a specialized surveillance department. The former patrols the property and responds to calls for assistance or reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. The latter uses closed circuit television to monitor the property and responds to reports via a hotline.