In a sense, this is "real life" as much as any other. Hard to tell where the line is. I have a life but go to school online and buy many things I buy online; 3D advertising these days always has an URL and about 50% of homes have PCs/online access, etc. I've met IRL people I met first online. I don't use online dictionaries/encyclopedias but only because I'm a researcher so am accustomed to other means for information. In a great many ways it's easier to talk to someone online than in person; especially if you aren't living in a family situation or don't work, etc. I think overall the online experience is helpful to people and a valid piece of IRL.