Nothing will ever replace the old-fashioned way of actually being together (in the same room) with a friend. Of being able to see/hear them laugh, cry, or simply talk. Of being able to share a meal with them. Of being able to see their facial expressions and body language when making an argument. Of being able to hug or kiss them spontaneously just because you felt the need or desire to.

BUT

A virtual friendship affords us a good alternative when the physical closeness is impossible. It affords us the exchange of ideas, and in some ways by delaying our immediate thoughts it may even intensify our ideas because it affords us more time to choose our words more carefully.

If you're a fair-minded individual and actually "listen" to what another is saying here (on the boards) and you admire what they're saying you have the basis for becoming a friend. Over a period of time that friendship can become very real and important. It may not be as rewarding as a "real" face-to-face friendship but it can be very real, indeed.