The article details the genesis of the research in the field of computer-mediated communication, from the early work, denying the existence of high-quality interaction in the Internet space to flexible, context-dependent models. Occupies a special place examination papers Walther J. and her theory giperpersonalnyh ties. Showing the key features of communication in cyberspace in accordance with modern ideas. Special attention is paid to the notion of social presence, which is key when considering internet communications.