A casino is a gambling establishment where people can play various games of chance or skill. Historically, casino games have always involved an element of risk. The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it has been a part of human culture for millennia. Some of the earliest evidence comes from 2300 BC China, where archaeologists have found dice and playing cards.

In most casinos, patrons gamble within certain limits, which are determined by law or custom. The casino’s management is responsible for enforcing these limits and must ensure that no player loses more than the house can afford to pay. This is known as the house edge. The casino also earns money from other games that require a minimal amount of skill, such as poker, by taking a commission on the bets made by players, which is called the rake.

Given the large amounts of cash handled by casino employees and patrons, both in collusion and independently, it is no surprise that security measures are a big priority at most casinos. Most modern casinos have both a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. These departments work closely together to respond quickly to reports of suspicious or definite criminal activity. In addition to these personnel, casinos often have a variety of security devices such as cameras and alarms.