A Hybrid Framework for Stable Cluster Head Selection and PSO-Optimized Routing in WSNs

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are crucial for various applications but often encounter challenges that hinder performance including limited energy resources, node failures, and uneven load distribution. Existing protocols such as LEACH (Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy) focus mainly on energy efficiency with no fault tolerance and load-balancing mechanisms, leading to early network degradation. Significant data loss occurs when Cluster Heads (CHs) fail due to the absence of an effective Backup CH selection process. Existing relay selection methods disregard link latency, energy consumption, and quality, resulting in poor multi-hop communication and increased packet transmission delays. To address these limitations, this study introduces a new hybrid strategy integrating balanced relay selection, backup CH selection, and an improved CH selection mechanism. The developed technique improves the LEACH framework by including the Base Station Reachability Factor (BSRF) and Link Reliability Period (LRP), ensuring energy-efficient cluster formation. To improve fault tolerance, the backup CH selection uses the Dual-Density Factor and Residual Energy, ensuring energy-efficient and well-connected backup CHs. A PSO-based relay node selection strategy improves inter-cluster communication and data forwarding. This approach leverages the Link Quality Indicator (LQI) and Data Propagation Time (DPT) to minimize energy consumption and enhance transmission efficiency. Extensive outcomes comparing the proposed approach with existing protocols show improved network lifespan, fault tolerance, and load balancing. The results of the suggested model confirm that this integrated framework addresses issues of scalability, reliability, and energy efficiency in WSNs.