Reed-Solomon encoders providing support for multiple codes in a simple architecture having a reduced number of Galois field multipliers. Rather than implementing n subfilters each representing an individual degree polynomial filter as in conventional Reed-Solomon encoder, multiple degree polynomials are factored in a way which is convenient to a desired plurality of Reed-Solomon codes. Thus, not only are the number of required Galois field multipliers reduced, but support for different Reed-Solomon codes is provided with a minimized number of Galois field multipliers. Preferred embodiments in compliance with the proposed 802.16.1 wireless standard support up to sixteen Reed-Solomon codes all within a single architecture, including sixteen subfilters, either cascaded or in parallel. Each of the individual filters balances and reduces critical path lengths in the Reed-Solomon encoder, and reduces the loading of critical nets, resulting in a Reed-Solomon encoder with a greater throughput for a given technology.