A sportsbook is a specialized service that focuses on sporting events and accepts bets on both sides of the action. A sportsbook may also include a full-service horse racing service, a casino and a live betting room. Depending on the location, these services may be offered online or at a brick-and-mortar establishment.

Legally-operated sportsbooks use software to track wagers, payouts and debts. They can be found in Las Vegas, on gambling cruises and at self-serve kiosks at racetracks across the country. They are generally run by individuals known as bookmakers, who may be licensed and regulated.

In addition to accepting wagers from people in various states, a sportsbook must comply with state and federal regulations, including the Wire Act, which prohibits interstate sports betting. In order to avoid violations, a sportsbook must ensure that its customers are located within state borders and use geolocation technology to identify them. It must also maintain a solid business plan and possess adequate financial resources to meet its obligations.

Whether operating an online or land-based sportsbook, a successful operation requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements and industry trends. It is important to find a platform that satisfies clients’ expectations, offers diverse sports and events and features high-level security measures. Some states require a license to operate a sportsbook, while others impose specific rules about what types of wagers they can accept. Some states may even impose restrictions on how a sportsbook can advertise its services.