An architecture to extend a wired controller area network (CAN) to the wireless domain of a low rate wireless personal area network (PAN) network is described herein. Such architecture provides a low cost, low power, efficient, and secure wireless network interface compatible with many existing SCADA infrastructure networks, in addition to countless other installations incorporating a CAN backbone. An architectural model for such an extension module includes additions to the CAN protocol stack. New protocols for the tunneling of messages and for enhancing reliability are also described.