I think many people who are used to playing poker with their friends think that playing online does not give the same buzz. It must be satisfying beating a friend who you do not often manage to beat and also having a laugh with your mates at the same time.
However, it is good fun playing on line as well. Many of the sites have great social networks so you can chat to players at the same time as play or in between games should you want to. There are some huge advantages in not knowing the players as well.
If you win a lot of money from your mate you may feel guilty that you are taking their money. However, if you do the same with a stranger then you are likely not to feel the same sense of regret.
If you are not good at hiding you thoughts in either your facial expression or things that you say, then playing behind a computer could be ideal. No one will be able to see or hear you and so you can do whatever you like and not worry about what everyone else is thinking.
If you think that reading peoples body language is all part of the game, then you could find playing online a more challenging way to play and you may learn some new skills rather than relying on reading people to get clues as tow hat their hand is. It can be quite a different game than playing with friends but it can also be just as much fun and until you have tried it you will not be able to judge. You may find that some sights offer free games and so you will be able to try it out and find out what you think before you pay to play.