This paper investigates the effect of introducing cognitive mechanisms in the routing module of a wireless network. A routing cost function that incorporates measurements of both internal network status and instantaneous behavior of external world is described. The proposed cost function is analyzed by simulation in the framework of IEEE 802.1.5.4a-like low data rate and low cost networks for mixed indoor/outdoor communications. The analysis focuses on the impact of MUI modeling on network performance. Results indicate that MUI-awareness, as provided by the proposed cognitive cost function, may improve network performance in terms of network lifetime. Based on this analysis, a mechanism for learning from previous routing decisions and adapting the routing cost function to MUI conditions is introduced
