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                                                                  Exhibit (a)(2)

                                  April 4, 2001


Dear Employee:

     Attached you will find the details of a stock option exchange program. As
you know, we are committed to the concept of employees as owners. Because of the
recent stock market volatility and your continued dedication, we want to offer
this exchange program. We believe this program will help to further align the
interests of the company and each employee.

     Please take the time to carefully read the documents and instructions
enclosed with this letter. You need to return the election form no later than 12
midnight, east coast time, on May 3, 2001.

     If you have any questions about the offer, please contact Robert Todd of
Akamai at (617) 250-4612 or Tracey Spruce of Akamai at (617) 613-2572, or send
an email to exchangeprogram@akamai.com.


Sincerely,


George H. Conrades
Chief Executive Officer

Enclosures