A communication method operates to seamlessly transmit internet protocol (IP) data frames, such as IPv6 data frames, over a communication network that uses a non-IP network routing protocol, i.e., a communication network that implements a network routing protocol other than, or that is incompatible with an IP network routing protocol, such as the WirelessHART protocol. This communication method enables, for example, field devices or other intelligent devices within a process plant network that uses a non-IP communication network to perform messaging of IP data frames generated at or to be received by internet protocol enabled devices either within the process plant network or outside of the process plant network.