A method for processing a Get Identifier ("GI_A") command received by a switch module of a multi-module fiber channel switch with a plurality of switch modules is provided. The method comprises determining if a domain value in the GI_A command is that of the multi-module switch; and if the domain value is equal to that of the multi-module fiber channel switch and if the GI_A command is not sent by one of the plurality of switch modules of the multi-module fiber channel switch, then combining replies from the plurality of switch modules of the multi-module switch with a reply of the switch module receiving the GI_A command; and sending the combined reply to a source of the GI_A command.