A network communication system includes a wireless independent secure local area network design (ISLAND) LAN-to-LAN tunnel terminal that provides a communications link to an access point of a primary network. A network control center, connected to the primary network, continuously monitors the wireless ISLAND LAN-to-LAN tunnel terminal and an alarm is set off when an outage occurs—such as caused by the wireless ISLAND being powered down. The wireless ISLAND may be enclosed in a hardened, portable case subject to security procedures. A method for establishing a secure communications link using a wireless ISLAND LAN-to-LAN tunnel terminal may include providing requirements that consider the wireless ISLAND to be a component of network infrastructure and not an end user client device, providing controls for physical access to the wireless ISLAND, and providing procedures for ensuring the security of the wireless ISLAND and the communications link that it provides.