In wireless sensor networks (WSN), clustering is one of the most significant ways of extending the network's lifetime. A clustering protocol effectively ensures that nodes save energy and extend the network's lifespan. Due to cluster creation overhead and cluster head duties, most present clustering techniques require much energy. An energy-efficient adaptive clustering and routing strategy to extend the longevity of WSN is proposed. A novel weight-based LEACH (LEACH-W) protocol is proposed to enhance the standard LEACH protocol that saves energy and extends the network's life. The proposed technique reduces energy usage in WSN by lowering the distance for node-to-node data transmission using a uniform cluster distribution and adaptive multi-hop techniques. The distance between the nodes is determined, and the residual energy of sensor nodes is considered while choosing the cluster head (CH) nodes, and the number of nodes is computed for every CH. The suggested solution addresses variations in network conditions and considers changeable settings in real-world situations. The suggested solution extends the lifespan of the WSN through load-balanced clustering. The impact of changing weights on energy minimization was studied, and the ideal weight energy was estimated. Simulation findings reveal that the suggested clustering algorithm and routing protocol outperform current practices. The proposed approach achieves balanced cluster distribution, extended longevity, and higher energy efficiency than standard procedures. © 2022 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.