The Internet has evolved exponentially since the dotcom boom more than a decade ago. Not only are you able to do more and more different things online, you can now do them free of charge. You’ll be amazed by the array of the web’s functionality ready at your fingertips, with your cash staying in your pockets. Here are things you can do without downloading any software (including freeware). All you need is a connected computer with a browser.

1. Communicating
The most essential function, and I need not elaborate. Recommendations: GMail for email. Meebo for instant-messaging. Yaplet to chat on webpages. Video-messaging: Eyejot . Group chat in business: CampFireNow .

2. Docs and spreadsheets
Can’t afford Microsoft Office? Fret not. Web apps are here to help. Google Spreadsheets would be my first choice. Otherwise, try Editgrid or ThinkFree . No downloads needed, great for wordprocessing on the go.

3. Filesharing
Do you want to send large files to a recipient halfway across the globe? No problem. I recommend YouSendIt . How about sharing files, links and chat at the same time? Behold the wonder of Pownce . Or how about creating a widget that allows your visitors to download your files from your website? Box.net can do just that and more.

4. Connecting
You’ll find one too many social networks out there, and you’re probably wondering why you end up having an account for all of them when you only need one. My verdict? Facebook is king. Stay connected to your friends, colleagues and family in ways previously impossible.

5. Video editing
Yes, you heard right. Completely online. Features are limited, of course, but you can easily edit a simple home video on the go. Try Jumpcut , YouTubeRemixer , or MovieMasher .

6. Image editing
You can access simple image-editing functions completely, even those that MSPaint can’t offer, on your browser. Try your hand at SnipShot , and FixPicture . Last resort: Online-Image-Editor .

7. Listen to the radio.
You don’t even need iTunes to give you radio. Give Tun3r a shot. If you’re looking for specific songs to listen to online, use last.fm or FineTune , which lets you embed a music player in your website or blog. It just doesn’t get any cooler than this.

8. Make free phone calls
Unbelievable. Head over to BOKNow , or Yak4ever .

9. Keep track of your spending
Even if you don’t think you need it, it could help you to track your spending and ultimately save money by identifying unnecessary costs. These apps are free to use so you’ve got nothing to lose: BudgetPulse , Walletproof , Plan2Spend .

10. Play games
Choose between consoles for hundreds of dollars, computer games for a hundred dollars, or internet games for zero dollars. My favorite: Kongregate . Otherwise, try AlbinoBlackSheepGames .

11. Create your own games
Why play someone else’s games when you can play your own? YoYoGames , MyGame .

12. Get organized
Put away your PostIt Notes, calendars and diaries. The web’s got you covered. To-do lists: Toodledo . Calendar: Google Calendars . Time-tracking: MyIntervals .

13. Convert files
Pretty much any generic file types can be converted without downloading one of those shareware programs that bug you about payment or registration. Bookmark Zamzar and MediaConvert .

14. Talk to the world
Everybody has something to say, and expressing yourself to the masses has never been easier. Blogging: WordPress . Podcasting: Podcastpeople . Video: YouTube . If you’re into writing, I recommend submitting your stuff to AssociatedContent , or publish your own book at Lulu .

15. Plan your vacations
No need to hire any agents or find any brochures, the following are all you need. Directions: Mapquest . Book flights and hotels: Expedia , Hotwire , Priceline , Kayak , FareCompare . Find the right time to book flights: Farecast . Find out what’s worth visiting: CitySearch .

16. Watch TV
No TV? No problem. Vuze , Jalipo , Zattoo , Joost .

For an all-in-one experience, try Zoho.com .

The moral of the story is, don’t ever buy software unless you absolutely need powerful functions web applications cannot offer (yet). All you really need is a browser. I recommend Firefox of course. In fact, you don’t even need to pay for your Operating System, but that’s a different story altogether. Those hardworking programmers are generous enough to provide you with all these conveniences, the least you can do is appreciate them.

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