WebProNews

Microsoft has struck a search distribution deal with Sun Microsystems to provide its MSN Toolbar to U.S. based Internet Explorer users when they download Sun's Java Runtime Environment platform.

The deal is part of Microsoft's strategy to capture more of the search market that is dominated by Google. Users downloading Sun's Java platform will have the option to download the MSN Toolbar and have access to Live Search features.

"This agreement with Sun Microsystems is another important milestone in our strategy to secure broad-scale distribution for our search offering, enabling millions more people to experience the benefits of Live Search," said Yusuf Mehdi, senior vice president of the Online Audience Business at Microsoft.

"With the vast array of Java software-based Web applications that are downloaded every month, this deal will expose Live Search to millions more Internet users and drive increased volume for our search advertisers."

Microsoft reached a similar deal with Hewlett-Packard earlier this year to allow the globes largest personal computer maker to place a toolbar on new PCs in the United States and Canada beginning in January.

Java is used by more than 6.5 million software developers around the world and is one of the most popular software platforms present on 91 percent of Internet-connected PCs globally.

"With over 800 million Java desktop users around the world, our goal is to provide Java users with compelling and immersive business and consumer solutions powered by Java technology and value-added solutions from world-class software partners," said Rich Green, executive vice president of Software at Sun Microsystems.

Terms of the search agreement were not disclosed.