Microsoft Audience Network native placements
The Microsoft Audience Network serves brand-safe native ads across MSN, Outlook.com, Microsoft Edge, and premium publisher sites using rich first-party intent signals.
The Microsoft native advertising ecosystem#
The Microsoft Audience Network reaches over a billion people globally through Microsoft-owned touchpoints. Unlike open-web native display networks notorious for low-quality clickbait environments, MSAN prioritises premium, brand-safe properties.
Key inventory includes the MSN news portal, Outlook.com inbox native placements, and the Microsoft Edge browser new tab experience as documented in Microsoft Audience Solutions, 2026.
First-party intent and LinkedIn targeting#
MSAN leverages proprietary Microsoft AI models powered by real-time Bing search intent, browsing behaviour, and Microsoft 365 signals.
Advertisers can overlay LinkedIn profile targeting (Company, Industry, Job Function) directly onto native placements, creating a powerful medium for B2B brand awareness and account-based marketing.
Engage corporate decision-makers while they check Outlook.com personal email or browse daily industry news on MSN.
Responsive visual asset requirements#
Audience Ads dynamically assemble creative from supplied headlines, descriptions, and images. High-resolution lifestyle photography in 1.91:1 and 1:1 ratios performs significantly better than text-heavy banners or stock graphics.
Publisher exclusions and bid adjustments#
Maintain strict placement controls by following Microsoft Audience Network Best Practices, 2026 and excluding domains that generate low engagement.
Review our Microsoft Ads Hub for comprehensive exclusion routines.
Standalone campaigns versus search extension#
Always build Audience Ads as standalone campaigns rather than relying on automatic search campaign network expansion. Standalone campaigns provide independent budget control, custom creative assets, and distinct bid strategies.
- Dedicated Budget: Keep native display budget isolated from high-intent search funds.
- Custom Landing Pages: Direct native traffic to content-rich, mid-funnel landing pages.
- Target CPA Bidding: Use automated CPA bidding with conservative targets to manage volume.
Frequently asked questions#
What is the Microsoft Audience Network (MSAN)?
MSAN is Microsoft's native advertising network serving responsive image and text ads across MSN, Outlook.com, Microsoft Edge, and approved partner websites.
Should I run Audience Ads in my Search campaigns?
No, it is best practice to set audience bid adjustments to -100% on search campaigns and build dedicated Audience campaigns for full budget and creative control.
Can I target by LinkedIn company name on MSAN?
Yes, Microsoft Audience Network campaigns support targeting and bid adjustments by LinkedIn Company, Industry, and Job Function.
How do I exclude poor publisher placements on MSAN?
Run a Website URL (Publisher) report in Microsoft Advertising reports, identify low-performing domains, and add them to your account or campaign Website Exclusion lists.
What image sizes are needed for Microsoft Audience Ads?
MSAN requires landscape images (1200 x 628, 1.91:1) and square images (1200 x 1200, 1:1), along with a square brand logo.
Read more on this topic#
The Microsoft Ads Hub
Free tools, campaign guides and live news for every Microsoft Ads format.
Open the hubThe Microsoft Ads campaign types inventory in 2026
A practical breakdown of all ten Microsoft Advertising campaign types and where each belongs in a modern account structure.
Read the entryCampaign level settings and what each one controls
A thorough guide to Microsoft Advertising campaign settings, network distribution options, and location targeting rules.
Read the entryWhich campaign wins when two enter the same Microsoft auction
How Microsoft Advertising resolves internal auction competition between ad groups, match types, and Performance Max assets.
Read the entryLooking to expand reach with native advertising?
folkfox crafts high-converting native creative assets and audience targeting strategies for the Microsoft Audience Network.