A processor for performing a fast Fourier transform or inverse fast Fourier transform comprises a radix-2 butterfly structure; and a radix-4 butterfly structure. A method of performing a fast Fourier transform or inverse fast Fourier transform comprises selectively performing a radix-2 butterfly operation on an input data stream; and selectively performing a radix-4 butterfly operation on one of a result produced by the radix-2 butterfly operation and the input data stream. Apparatus for performing a fast Fourier transform or inverse fast Fourier transform comprises means for selectively performing a radix-2 butterfly operation on an input data stream; and means for selectively performing a radix-4 butterfly operation on one of a result produced by the radix-2 butterfly operation and the input data stream. A communication device for transmitting or receiving information, including an inverse fast Fourier transform module or fast Fourier transform module, comprises a radix-2 butterfly structure having inputs and outputs; a radix-4 butterfly structure having inputs coupled to the radix-2 butterfly structure outputs; and a multiplexer alternately coupling the data stream to the inputs of the radix-2 butterfly structure or to the inputs of the radix-4 butterfly structure, whereby the module can perform two different resolution inverse fast Fourier transforms or fast Fourier transforms dependent on the inputs selected.