This study provides a thorough examination of the important intersection of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) with machine learning (ML) for improving security. WSNs play critical roles in a wide range of applications, but their inherent constraints create unique security challenges. To address these problems, numerous ML algorithms have been used to improve WSN security, with a special emphasis on their advantages and disadvantages. Notable difficulties include localisation, coverage, anomaly detection, congestion control, and Quality of Service (QoS), emphasising the need for innovation. This study provides insights into the beneficial potential of ML in bolstering WSN security through a comprehensive review of existing experiments. This study emphasises the need to use ML’s potential while expertly resolving subtle nuances to preserve the integrity and dependability of WSNs in the increasingly interconnected environment.