Abstract: A shortcut technique implements forwarding decision shortcuts at a switch for frames routed between subnetworks of a computer network. The switch monitors the flow of a first frame of a particular type to and from the router, which renders a forwarding decision for routing the frame. The switch records information stored in network layer header of a packet encapsulated within the first frame, and then compares that information with the information stored in network layer headers of packets contained within subsequent frames of that particular type. Forwarding decisions for these subsequent frames are then rendered by hardware logic circuits of the switch rather than by the router.