a method for maximizing i / o requests to a target port is provided . the method includes a storage controller obtaining an initiator allowed queue depth , receiving an i / o request and a current sequence identifier from an initiator logged into the target port , and determining if the initiator allowed queue depth is equal to a first queue depth corresponding to the initiator . if the initiator allowed queue depth is equal to the first queue depth then returning a queue full indication and a maximum sequence identifier equal to the current sequence identifier to the initiator . if the initiator allowed queue depth is not equal to the first queue depth then placing the i / o request on a queue , incrementing the first queue depth , and adjusting the maximum sequence identifier . adjusting the maximum sequence identifier includes adding the current sequence identifier to the initiator allowed queue depth and subtracting the first queue depth .