MSN rises, Google drops.

AdWeek noted that MSN Search is gaining ground, apparently at Google’s expense. Taking results from Neilsen/NetRatings report on the January to February changes, the article shows that MSN’s new engine grew to 14.2 percent from 12.8 percent while Google dropped to 45.9 percent from 47.1 percent. Yahoo’s share held steady at about 21 percent.

February 1 was the launch of MSN Search and their big advertising push which included a Super Bowl advertisement and extensive web and TV ads including spots during the Academy awards and the Grammys. The campaign was estimated to cost about $150 million.

Susan Esparza is former managing editor at Bruce Clay Inc., and has written extensively for clients and internal publications. Along with Bruce Clay, she is co-author of the first edition of Search Engine Optimization All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies.

See Susan's author page for links to connect on social media.