Abstract: A system and associated method for the synchronization and control of multiplexed payloads over a telecommunications network wherein the asynchronous timing relationships between multiplexed payloads having varied points of origin are retained subsequent to signal processing of the payloads for further transmission to a destination point. System modules 22 include a network interface section 30, a synchronization, multiplexing and control (SMC) section 50, and a processing section 110. The SMC section 50 includes network interface bus circuitry, payload segmentation and re-assembly circuitry, control and management memory and related circuitry, payload re-assembly circuitry, and processor bus interface circuitry. The processing section of module 22 provides means for data compression, echo cancellation, error correction coding, or voice and data encryption/decryption. The module 22 is dynamically configured through a software management and control interface.