You may have heard the name Zoho before. Some people know it for CRM. Some know it for email. Some know it as a set of business apps. So, what is Zoho?
In this simple guide, you will learn what Zoho is, who runs it, what it sells, how much it may cost, and who should use it.
What Is Zoho?
Zoho is a software company. It makes online tools for businesses. These tools help with sales, marketing, accounting, email, customer support and project work.
You use Zoho on the internet. You do not need to install big programs on your computer.
The full name of the company is Zoho Corporation. It is a private company. It is also known for growing without money from outside investors.
A Short History of Zoho
Zoho started in 1996. At that time, its name was AdventNet. It made software to manage computer networks.
In 2009, the company changed its name to Zoho. Over time, it added many new tools. Zoho CRM came out in 2005. Later, it added tools for projects, documents, meetings, invoices and email.
Today, Zoho offers more than 55 business apps. It says more than 100 million people use its products. Its main office is in Chennai, India. It also has a large office near Austin, Texas, in the USA.
Who Runs Zoho?
Sridhar Vembu and Tony Thomas started the company. Sridhar Vembu was the CEO for many years.
In January 2025, he stepped down as CEO. He became the Chief Scientist. Now he works mostly on research and AI. He also works on rural development.
Shailesh Kumar Davey is the new Group CEO. Tony Thomas leads Zoho in the US.
Some old websites still show Sridhar Vembu as CEO. So, always check the official Zoho website for the latest news.
Top Zoho Products
Zoho has many products. These are the most popular:
- Zoho CRM: Keep track of leads, manage deals and follow up with customers.
- Zoho Books: Online accounting. Make invoices, track costs and manage payments.
- Zoho Mail: Business email with your own company name.
- Zoho Workplace: Tools for documents, sheets, slides and team work.
- Zoho Projects: Plan projects and track tasks.
- Zoho One: One plan that gives you 45+ apps together.
Zoho also owns ManageEngine. This brand makes IT and security tools for large companies.
What Is Zoho One?
Zoho One is the “all-in-one” plan. You do not buy each app alone. You pay for one plan and get many apps.
It covers sales, marketing, money, HR and reports. All the apps work together and share data. This is helpful when your business is growing.
Main Benefits of Zoho
- Low cost: Many businesses choose Zoho because the price is fair.
- Many tools in one place: Use one company for sales, money, email and support.
- Easy to grow: Start with one app. Add more later.
- Good for all sizes: Small and big businesses can use it.
- Works with other apps: Zoho connects with many popular tools.
Possible Problems
No software is perfect. Keep these points in mind:
- There are so many apps that new users may feel confused.
- Some setups may need help from an expert.
- Some features come only in higher paid plans.
Zoho Pricing Overview
Each Zoho app has its own plans. For example, Zoho CRM paid plans often start at about $14 per user each month with yearly billing. There may also be a small free plan for a few users.
Prices change from time to time. They can also be different in each country. So, please check the official Zoho website before you buy. Use the free trial first.
Zoho vs Other Tools
| Tool | Best For | Main Strength |
| Zoho | Low budget and all-in-one needs | Many apps at a good price |
| HubSpot | Startups and marketing teams | Strong free plan |
| Salesforce | Large companies | Many custom options |
| Pipedrive | Sales teams | Simple and visual |
Who Should Use Zoho?
Zoho is a good choice if you:
- Own a small or medium business and want to save money.
- Need many business tools from one company.
- Want to start small and grow slowly.
Zoho may not be the best choice if you need only one very simple tool.
How to Start with Zoho
- Write down what you need. It can be CRM, accounting, email, or all of them.
- Go to the official Zoho website and make a free account.
- Try the free trial of one or two apps.
- Add your team and your data.
- After one month, check the results. Then choose a paid plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zoho?
Zoho is a software company. It makes online business tools like CRM, accounting, email and project apps.
Who owns Zoho?
Zoho is a private company. Sridhar Vembu and Tony Thomas started it. Reports say Radha Vembu holds the largest share. Shailesh Kumar Davey has been the Group CEO since early 2025.
Where is the Zoho headquarters?
The main office is in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The US office is near Austin, Texas.
Is Zoho free?
Some Zoho apps have free plans with limits. Most full features need a paid plan.
Is Zoho good for small business?
Yes. Many small businesses use Zoho because it is low cost and has many tools.
Conclusion
Zoho is a good choice for businesses that want many tools in one place at a fair price. From Zoho CRM to Zoho Books and Zoho One, it has something for almost every team.
Start with a free trial. Test the apps you need. Then grow step by step. If Zoho fits your work, it can save you time and money.
