Methods and apparatus for enabling Fast Context Switching (FCS) operation of an enhanced Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) expander and initiator for switching between one or more concurrently established connections including at least one Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) target device connection. Features and aspects hereof provide for enhanced logic within a SAS expander and/or initiator to detect the completion of an exchange over a first connection between an initiator device and a SATA target device and to allow switching to another (a second) connection without closing the first connection.