a method and system for transferring data between a host and a serial attached small computer interface device using a storage controller is provided . the storage controller includes , a world wide name module that includes a table having plural entries , wherein each row includes a wwn address , an initiator tag value field , an input / output counter value that tracks plural commands for a connection . a wwn index value represents the address of a row having plural entries . the method includes , comparing frame elements of incoming frames , including a unique wwn address with the wwn module entries ; and if there is a match , updating a counter value for a connection between the storage controller and a device sending frames . the counter value is increased when a command frame is received and decreased when a command is executed and a response is sent to the device .