Methods, systems and apparatus are provided which prevent frame mis-ordering in an explicitly routed network when switching from a first path to a second path. In a first embodiment, last frame and first frame markers are transmitted, and a receiver buffers all frames received between receipt of the last frame marker and the first frame marker. In a second embodiment, a last frame marker is sent to which an acknowledgement must be received before transmitting on the second path. In a third embodiment, only a first frame marker is sent. The receiver, upon receipt, signals a network card for the first path to stop forwarding frames, also buffers frames for some period. In a fourth embodiment, the merge point node forwards frames over different paths with unique markings so the outgoing card can distinguish them.