The invention relates to a method of forming a conducting nanowire between two contacts on a substrate surface wherein a plurality of nanoparticles is deposited on the substrate in the region between the contacts, and the single nanowire running substantially between the two contacts is formed by either by monitoring the conduction between the contacts and ceasing deposition at the onset of conduction, and/or modifying the substrate to achieve, or taking advantage of pre-existing topographical features which will cause the nanoparticles to form the nanowire. The resultant conducting nanowires are also claimed as well as devices incorporating such nanowires.