Online friends are cool and all, but it's better to have real ones.
I visit a few sites pertaining to my interests.
I've met some of the coolest people ever on these sites.
I love all my online guys and gals, but I don't even know what half of them look like.
I recommend purchasing a IRC client like MIRC or finding a free browser based one.
I've noticed that wrong planet has it's own #channel.
Just about any subject you can imagine has a channel dedicated to it.
Basically forums like this, IRC rooms, and online gaming are the best ways to make online friends.
I don't really know anyone in my life beside my family anymore, so having people to talk on the internet has really helped.
I think some of my online friends know more about me than anyone.
If you play music, or have any sort of hobby; join a forum for it.
Xbox Live, PSN, and Steam aren't great for making friends to talk to but you can play vidya together which passes the time.
Like people have said, this place is a good start. I'm sure you'll find someway to socialize.