Abstract: A hash calculation is performed using a portion or portions of a packet that is to be transmitted or is received. The calculated hash value can be used to select an entry that defines how the packet is to be handled. The performance of the lookup operation can be monitored and if the hash calculation is resulting in excessive collisions or extra processing steps are needed in connection with the lookup operation, then the inputs to the hash calculation can be modified to attempt to improve the performance of the lookup operation. For example, if performance of the lookup operation meets a threshold level to trigger a change in inputs, then different inputs can be selected and specified for use.