Systems and methods are provided for synchronizing multiple channels in an access network, where the multiple channels are neighboring channels such that a guard band between them or use of a diplexer to prevent inter-channel interference is not required. Synchronization is achieved by defining channel MAP (media access plan) cycle structures such that all channels work in the same direction (upstream US or downstream DS) at any given time. Moreover, the network controller of channel may send out a beacon to allow new nodes to join. A long MAP cycle (402) may be followed by three consecutive regular MAP cycles (404, 406), and (408). These MAP cycles are repeated between beacon transmissions. Synchronization allows multiple channels to be configured contiguous (without a guard band between neighboring channels) and without utilizing diplexers. A plurality of customer premises equipment may operate on each of the communications channels.