A software system for use with a network controller is disclosed. The software system comprises a plurality of modules, wherein some of the modules are specific to the network protocol used by the network controller. Other modules are usable for a variety of network protocols without modification. In this way, the development of the software for a network controller may be simplified resulting in less development time. Further, this system allows for flexibility to add attributes and rules at any time without modification to most of the system. The software system includes an attribute store, a resolver engine, a frame handler, a frame transmitter and a frame receiver.