No, wireless local area networks (WLANs), commonly referred to as Wi-Fi networks, do not use microwave energy to carry data. While microwaves and Wi-Fi both operate within the broader category of radio waves on the electromagnetic spectrum, their specific frequencies and purposes differ.
Wi-Fi networks utilize radio waves in the frequency range of 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz to transmit data wirelessly between devices such as computers, smartphones, and routers. These radio waves are relatively low-energy compared to microwaves used in microwave ovens.
The use of the term "microwave" in Wi-Fi networks can sometimes cause confusion, but it refers to the wireless transmission of data and not the use of microwave radiation for heating, as in a microwave oven.
Wi-Fi signals, like other radio waves, propagate through the air and are received by Wi-Fi-enabled devices. The data is encoded into the radio waves and transmitted over the air, allowing devices to communicate and exchange information within a specific range.
It's important to note that while Wi-Fi signals are safe for everyday use and have been extensively studied for their potential health effects, it's advisable to follow manufacturer recommendations, use appropriate security measures, and limit exposure to excessive levels of any wireless technology.