Abstract: One of the research hotspots in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) is the realization of efficient and realtime data routing with limit  resources. We proposed an Optimum Routing Algorithm (ORA) based on ant colony optimization, aiming at the differences of applications with different design objectives. To meet the requirements of energy efficiency, load balance and realtime performance, we introduced a new parameter. Meanwhile the routing algorithm of WSNs is optimized by the combination of ant colony optimization algorithm. The simulation results show that ORA can extend network lifetime as long as possible for different applications, and perform better in realtime, efficient routing.
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Key words: wireless sensor networks (WSNs), network routing, ant colony optimization (ACO), betweenness centrality, optimum route