Presented are methods and apparatus for decoupling transport and control (T&C) functions from a plurality of eNBs and collecting the T&C functions in a centralized entity for managing the T&C functions for a larger pool of eNBs. An enhanced interface and protocol is defined for allowing the new T&C pool entity to communicate with the eNBs over a shared IP based network. The redistributed functionality provides for optimizing both data compression capabilities and security by compressing data earlier in its transmission path and by encrypting data before it is sent to an eNB.