One way to come out of this would be to join another wave: the surge of internet entrepreneurs and people looking to making money in the digital world. Whether you want to start a small business online or searching easy businesses to start from home, the digital marketplace has no shortage of opportunities.

With so many apps and platforms that simplify the process, starting a home based online business has become easier than ever. These tools can help guide you from the idea phase to a fully-fledged business, from creating an online business website to managing marketing, finances and customer relationships.

With this detailed guide, we are going to cover the best apps you can install and use to start your online business and run it successfully. We will cover different tools that you can leverage to build your website, manage your day-to-day operations, improve customer engagement and the entrepreneur side of your business.

1. Introduction to Online Business

Previously, starting a business involved a large investment of time, money, and effort. The vast majority of entrepreneurs were required to claim physical spaces, recruit employees and devote a huge chunk of their resources to marketing and logistics. But, with the internet, it is a lot easier to start an online business at home with little overhead and platforms that are user-friendly and offer free trials or even completely free plans!

Without the need for a physical store, operating costs are comparatively lower so an online business can be operated from almost anywhere. In recent history, the emergence of digital tools, applications, and platforms that allow people to easily build websites, manage customers, track sales, and even manage finances all from their living rooms has provided both the skills for remote work and the necessary infrastructure.

There are many options available for starting an online business, and it is all dependent on your interests, expertise, and budget if you are looking for some guidance. Whether you want to sell physical products, provide digital services, or launch an easy online business like a blog, there are plenty of tools available that can optimize your processes and set you on the path to success.

Examples of online businesses you can start today are ebook online stores, freelance services such as graphic design and programming, affiliate marketing websites, etc.

Having an idea about business isn’t limited to that. And success comes down to execution of your vision. This means harnessing the appropriate tech and tools. In the rest of the sections, we are going to discuss the best apps that can help you start your business for free, how these apps can shape your online business.

2. Best Apps to Start an Online Business

If you are planning to start a business from home or launching your online business website, then you need to understand that it is not just the domain name and hosting. Here are some of the best apps that can help get you building, growing, and running your small businesses online.

i. Shopify: The Ultimate Online Business Website Solution

Shopify has been named one of the most trustworthy platforms out there when it comes to setting up an online store. This app enables business owners to create an online store that looks professional, manage inventory, process payments, and more. It’s particularly good for anyone interested in launching an e-commerce venture, whether a niche product or a general marketplace.

Pros:

• All-in-one e-commerce platform: Everything you need to operate an online store on Shopify, from website hosting to product management
• User-friendly: It boasts a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easier even for novices to create a working online store.
• Integrated Payment Solutions: Shopify takes care of payments, simplifying online payment acceptance.
• Scalable: Shopify offers tools and apps as your business grows.

Cons:

• Monthly Costs: Shopify does charge a monthly fee, which might be a hinderance to beginners.
• Less Flexible than Open Source: Although Shopify is flexible, when you compare it with open-source platforms like WordPress, you are left with fewer choices here.
• Best For: Anyone who wants to build a business website and sell their products with little to no technical expertise

ii. Wix: The Simple Website Builder for Beginners

Wix is a great option if you want a simple, easy-to-use tool for creating an online business website. This is a drag-and-drop website builder that allows you to quickly create a professional-looking business website.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface: Drag-and-drop editor is ideal for non-techies
• Free Plan: Wix has a free version where you can try out the platform before a subscription.
• Templates and themes: There are hundreds of customizable templates available for your website design.
• Mobile Friendly: Wix automatically makes your site mobile-friendly.

• Cons:
• Free plan with limited features: There are some restrictions in the free plan, for example, you do not get to use a custom domain.
• Not Recommended for Larger Businesses: Wix may not scale as well for large business companies try shopping some of the options ( shopify, word press etc.
• Best For: Business owners who want a simple online solution with minimal technical skills required.

iii. WordPress: The Flexible Platform for Custom Websites

WordPress, one of the most popular site platforms, is incredibly customizable and flexible, and as a result, so are the analytics insights. Its fully customizable approach and responsive nature means it can be used to build anything from blogs and business sites to e-commerce stores and portfolio sites.

Pros:

• You can charge whatever you want and completely control the design of your website.
• Extensively customizable: You can customize your site as per your requirements via thousands of plugins and themes.
• SEO Friendly: WordPress is already optimized for SEO which can help to take your search engine rankings to the next level.
• Big Community: Lots of forums, help, tutorials and communities for troubleshooting.

Cons:

• Needs hosting: Unlike Wix or Shopify, you’re going to have to buy web hosting and a domain name.
• Steeper learning curve: Beginners have a tougher time setting up WordPress compared to drag-and-drop builders
• Best For: Those wanting complete freedom in terms of design and functionality, who are comfortable with a steeper learning curve.

vi. Etsy: Best for Creative Entrepreneurs and Small-Scale Artisans

If you are in the creative industry or plan to sell one-of-a-kind, handmade, or vintage products, Etsy is one of the best platforms for starting an online business. Etsy provides a built-in marketplace that users actively use to look for unique products, so it’s a great option for online small businesses that focus on unique, handmade, or craft-based products.

Pros:

• Low startup cost: Unlike creating your own website, you can immediately start listing products on Etsy.
• Built-in audience: Etsy has an existing and loyal customer base, helping you avoid the hassle of getting traffic to your store.
• Customizable shop: While Etsy has a more marketplace-style layout, you’re still able to customize your shop to give it a look and feel that reflects your brand.

Cons:

• Fees: Etsy takes listing fees and transaction fees, which may not seem much, but can add up.
• Extremely competitive: With so many sellers on Etsy, standing out can be a challenge without a strong unique selling proposition.
• Best For: Creators, artists, and crafters who are ready to run a from-home business selling handmade or vintage items.

v. Square Online: Combining Physical and Digital Sales

For entrepreneurs who also run a physical business, Square Online offers a straightforward solution to create an online store. If you have a physical store and want to expand your sales to the digital realm, the integration between physical and online sales on Square is super convenient.

Pros:

• Free plan available: Square has a free plan which has some important features to help you get going fast.
• Seamless integration with Square POS: If you already have an established setup with Square for in-store transactions, the link is seamless and easy.
• Mobile-optimized: Square’s platform is mobile-friendly and completely functional on mobile, so customers can shop on the run.

Cons:

• Less customization: You have fewer options to customize your online store compared to other platforms.
• Premium features require a paid plan: Some advanced features, like in-depth analytics and enhanced e-commerce tools, are only available on a paid plan.
• Best For: Online shop owners with an established brick and mortar store who want an all-in-one sales solution.

3. Key Apps for Managing Your Online Business

After establishing your online business website, daily operations management is crucial to success. Below are some critical applications needed to run your business:

i. QuickBooks: Simplify Your Business Accounting

Running a business is one of the most difficult things to do, and accounting is one of the most challenging aspects, but QuickBooks makes the process simple. Whether you’re tracking expenses, invoicing clients or getting ready for taxes, QuickBooks helps you organize your financials.

Pros:

• Automatic sync with bank accounts: The accounts is syncs your bank accounts and credit cards for effortless bookkeeping.
• Financial reporting: QuickBooks create reports warn you the overall picture of your finance.
• Invoicing: You may print invoices and email them to clients or customers.

Cons:

• Cost: QuickBooks has a free trial, but its key features require a subscription.
• Complexity: QuickBooks is relatively easy for most users, but it can be complicated for non-accountants.
• Best For: Entrepreneurs looking for a sure tool to monitor their business finances and maintain their records in order.

ii. Trello: Organize Your Workflow and Projects

Trello is a visual project management tool for organizing tasks, deadlines, and projects. Excellent to track team collaboration, content schedules, and any business workflows.

Pros:

• Visual Layout: The boards and cards in Trello make it a breeze to visualize and manage your business tasks.
• Good for collaboration: Trello is excellent for managing teams, as it allows delegation.
• Free Plan Available: Trello does have a free version with limited features.

Cons:

• Limited features on the free plan: Automation and other advanced features are reserved for a premium subscription.
• Can become cluttered: If not organized properly, Trello can get very overwhelming as your business scales.
• Best For: Small business entrepreneurs who want an easy-to-use and visual tool for task management, project tracking, and collaboration.

4. Advantages of Using Apps for Your Online Business

There are many advantages to running your online business using apps:

• Efficiency: Automation software helps you to streamline tasks like marketing, customer support, and bookkeeping so that you can spend more time on core business activities.
• Affordable: Most applications have free or inexpensive subscription options, making them affordable to even those starting an on-line free business with a little budget.
• Scalability: Many apps come with features that can grow with your business, letting you upgrade and add tools.

Flexibility: Most apps are cloud-based, so you can access them from anywhere with an internet connection.

5. Disadvantages of Using Apps for Your Online Business

While the advantages of using apps are many, there are several disadvantages to keep in mind as well:

• Subscription Costs: While many apps offer free plans, premium features are usually available for a cost.
• Steeper Learning Curve: Some programs take a bit more training and times can be harder to use, particularly the more complex forms of these apps.
• Reliance on Technology: If a tool goes down or has technical issues, your operations may be impacted.

6. Essential Tools for Customer Support and Engagement

While many are focusing on creating an attractive website and a well-structured back-end system for their online businesses, there is one element that cannot be ignored, and that is a dedicated customer support system. Providing timely and accurate support or solution to your customers is very essential in retaining the customers as well as their satisfaction. We will now focus on some tools that might assist your customer support and customer engagement.

i. Zendesk: Professional Customer Support Platform

Zendesk is a customer service and engagement tool that helps businesses seamlessly manage customer interactions. Zendesk integrates and unifies your communication channels (email,live chat, social media, phone etc.) into one place.

Pros:

• Multi-channel support: With Zendesk, you can manage emails, live chats, and social media interactions in one place.
• Automation: You don’t need to answer every simple customer question over and over, which can save time and guarantees quicker responses.
• Knowledge Base: Create a self-service support center where customers can find answers to common questions.

Cons:

• Price: Sometimes you need to pay up to get premium customer service options, and Zendesk can be a bit pricey for smaller businesses, although there is a free trial.
• Learning Curve: As a sophisticated platform, it does take a little bit of time to get used to everything.
• Best For: Small online businesses looking to provide great customer service across multiple communication channels.

ii. Intercom: Customer Engagement and Live Chat

Intercom – A tool that communicates with customers live via live chat or automated messaging and personalized support. It’s particularly valuable for businesses that you can run out of your own home, where getting face-to-face with customers can mean more.

Pros:

• Live Chat and Automation: Live chat support with automation for common inquiries and follow-up messages.
• Specific Segments: With the help of Intercom, users can target specific segments based on behavior and hence increase engagement rates.
• Easy to use: The platform has user-friendly integration with various 3rd party apps.

Cons:

• Costly for startups: Intercom is pricey, especially if you’re in the early days.
• Complicated Setup: It is a little bit complicated for beginners who have no experience whatsoever.
• Best For: Entrepreneurs seeking to provide on-the-spot customer service with live chat and connect personally with customers.

7. Digital Marketing Tools for Your Online Business

Having a digital presence is one thing, but marketing is another in our world of today. Whether you are sticking to easy businesses to start from home or looking to run an established business online, ensuring that your business is visible to your target audience comes from a strong marketing strategy. Here are the best digital marketing tools to succeed in this domain:

i. Google Ads: Paid Advertising for Instant Visibility

One of the most useful tools for getting traffic to your online business site is Google Ads. Whether you are a beginner or want to scale up your business, Google Ads can increase visibility, target specific customer segments, and generate more leads and sales.

Pros:

• Targeted advertising: With Google Ads, you can target your ads based on demographics, interests, location, and even specific keywords.
• Measurable: Your campaigns are easily tracked with performance metrics that are clear.

Cons:

• Expensive for newbies: Same as above, if you don’t know what you’re doing with Google Ads, it could expensive very fast, but it’s not guaranteed that you will make your money back.
• Complex: You need a little level of expertise and experience to improve your ads correctly which can be hard for starters in an online business.
• Best For: Business owners that want quick results and are prepared to spend money on pay-per-click advertising to drive traffic to their website.

ii. Hootsuite: Efficient Social Media Management

For small businesses online, social media is essential; it allows you to interact with your target audience, advertise your products, and build brand awareness. Hootsuite is one of the better apps that can help you streamline your social media management and make it easier to do things like schedule posts, keep track of your engagement and analyze performance across multiple platforms.

Pros:

• Multi-platform scheduling: Get the ability to schedule posts on all the major social media platforms — Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram — in one spot.
• Analytics: Hootsuite has powerful analytics tools to track social media performance, so you can adapt strategies on the fly.
• Data on Team Collaboration: Hootsuite Enables Team Member Collaboration for Workflow Management.

Cons:

• Pricing: There is a free plan, but advanced features come with a subscription.
• Too much for beginners: The wide range of features tends to be a bit overwhelming, especially for starting entrepreneurs.
• Best For: Business owners who are social media active and want a platform to handle scheduling posts and monitoring engagement.

iii. Canva: Easy Graphic Design for Marketing

For online businesses run from home, marketing and embedded visuals become significantly important. Canva graph design tool that is user friendly, design professional graphic for your website, social media, emails campaign etc.

Pros:

• Easy to use: Canva is great for non-designers, with templates for social media posts, business presentations, and more.
• Free Option: Canva has a generous free version of their software that can be used for businesses that are just getting started.
• Rich Library of Design Elements: It offers thousands of fonts, images, and templates to use for your marketing materials.

Cons:

• No Premium Design Features on Free Plan: The free plan offers a lot, but you will need a paid subscription to access premium features and designs.
• Watermarked Free Images: While many other sites allow you to use free images without a watermark, some of the images and graphics on this site cannot be used without a watermark unless you buy a premium plan.
• Best For: Online small business owners who need simple, yet visually stunning designs for social media, websites, and email campaigns.

8. SEO Tools to Rank Higher in Search Results

The Importance of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for Online Business Websites SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is imperative for attracting organic traffic to your online business website. SEO ensures that even the best products or services do not become hidden in search engine results.

Here are some of them essential (SEO/SEM) tools that help you optimize your website for search engines and give good visibility to the keyword.

i. Yoast SEO: Improve Your Website’s Search Engine Rankings

This includes plugins for WordPress, such as Yoast SEO, which is one of the best-known content optimization plugins on the internet if you are running your online business using a WordPress platform. For example: Yoast can assist in on-page SEO making it easier to rank for the correct keywords e.g. online business from home, easy businesses to start from home, best online business to start.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface: Yoast offers a simple checklist for optimizing each page and post for SEO.
• Keyword optimization: The plugin assists you in choosing the most appropriate keywords for your business and guarantees they are properly implemented across your content.

Cons:

• Only for WordPress: Yoast SEO is a WordPress plugin, making it incompatible with other platforms.
• Limited features on the free version: Some advanced SEO features are only available on the premium version.
• Best For: WordPress website owners looking for a simple way to optimize content for SEO.

ii. SEMrush: Comprehensive SEO and Marketing Platform

SEMrush is a powerful all-in-one SEO and digital marketing tool that lets you monitor keyword rankings, assess competitors and optimize website content for improved search engine placement.

Pros:

• Keyword Research: There are tons of information about keywords in SEMrush that will help you find high-volume (low-competition) keywords like best online small business and online free business and the likes.
• Competitor Analysis: This is where you can get details of your competitors’ SEO strategies and find opportunities to perform better than them.
• Detailed Reports: SEMrush will demonstrate your website’s SEO status and allow you to improve this right away.

Cons:

• Costly elements: There are a list of pricing plans with SEMrush, but you get only a fraction of the tools with free nodes, and the ones that matter are often located at the top-end price plans, which can be cost-prohibitive for small businesses.
• Not for All: It’s not designed for every single person out there.
• Ideal For: Entrepreneurs who require a complete SEO tool that will also help strengthen their presence on the web and monitor results across all aspects of their digital marketing strategy.

9. Conclusion: A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Online Business for Free

To summarize, we live in a time when the digital world provides a unique opportunity to create your own business and manage it from home. Not only can using the right apps and the right platforms streamline your operations, but it will also help you grow and scale your business.

You do not have to invest a large amount of capital to start an online free business. Instead, you can use free tools — website builders, email marketing platforms, customer support apps, etc. to get your business going.

Using the right tools, targeting the right audience, and iterating your website are all ways to minimize your startup costs and successfully run an online business.

This expanded content now includes a variety of tools and strategies for budding online entrepreneurs, from low-competition keyword integration to tangible how-to tips. Utilizing these tools and strategies, entrepreneurs can successfully and efficiently navigate the realm of creating an online business.