Anyone looking to meet people online doesn't have to go far. Many of these matchmaker sites are free to start, though others have monthly fees. Most sites require individuals to make profiles. Some ask singles to fill in surveys, filling in information about their values, their likes, and their dislikes. All of this collected information is then analyzed by the site, producing a number of online matches for the individual. Each person can then choose to contact their matches to exchange messages and set up dates.

This is perhaps one of the greatest advantages of using online dating sites to find singles online. The potential dating pool online is larger than what people would normally be exposed to if they could only sample from their immediate geographical area. In addition, all of these candidates are evaluated for their 'fit' with the values, beliefs, and goals of each single. This cuts back a lot of the 'trial and error' involved with traditional dating. The expression 'opposites attract' may be true, but they certainly don't stay together. Most successful couples are those whose members are alike in the most important areas in life. Thus, couples can start their relationship off on the right foot with the knowledge that they are well-fit for each other. Indeed, these sites work so well that many of the interactions between members end in marriage.