A method and system for reflexive tunneling. One aspect of the invention includes a method for reflexive tunneling using hidden virtual tunnels. A first peer application sends data packets to a second peer application and intermediate network devices create a hidden virtual tunnel to send the data packets. The hidden virtual tunnel is "hidden" from the first peer application and the second peer application. The hidden virtual tunnels may allow supplemental services to be added to a network device such as a gateway in less time with less expense. Another aspect of the invention includes a method for reflexive tunneling using transparent virtual tunnels with multiple segments. A first peer application associated with a first network device on a first network with multiple communication channels sends data packets to a second peer application associated with a second network device on a second network over a pre-determined communications channel forming a first segment of transparent virtual tunnel. Intermediate network devices create a second segment of the transparent virtual tunnel, by adding headers to the data packets between the first and second networks. Reflexive tunneling with transparent virtual tunnels with multiple segments between the first and second networks, may allow peer applications on a network device with multiple communication channels on a communication link to communicate with other peer applications on other independent devices without confusion.