Microsoft Makes Deal With Insurers

Demonstrating the potential for applying advertising practices online similar to those found in other media, Microsoft Corp. today will announce a series of advertising packages targeted at insurance companies that can be bought across the company’s network of Web sites.

Microsoft will sell insurance companies advertising packages on three coverage categories--life insurance, auto insurance and homeowners’ and renters’ insurance--tied to content on the company’s CarPoint, MoneyCentral and HomeAdvisor sites.

Microsoft, whose network of Web sites is the third-most-frequently visited, according to Media Metrix Inc., said it has already sold more than $10 million in packaged slots to Allstate Insurance Co., Ohio Casualty Group and State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co.

The company said it will develop more packages that could be applied to its network, possibly including financial services.