A configurable wide area distributed antenna system is provided. At least one remote master unit of the system is in communication with at least one base station. The remote master unit includes a remote switch function that provides at least multiplexing in a downlink direction, demultiplexing in an uplink direction and routing of digital samples. The local master unit is located remote from the remote master unit. The local master unit is in communication with at least one remote antenna unit used to provide communication coverage in a select coverage area. The local master unit includes a local switch function providing at least demultiplexing in a downlink direction, multiplexing in an uplink direction and routing of digital samples. At least one communication link communicatively couples the remote master unit to the local communication unit with transport media interfaces.