A method and system for providing the ability to add or remove components of a data processing system without powering the system down ("Hot-plug"). The system includes an arbiter, residing within a Host Bridge, Control & Power logic, and a plurality of in-line switch modules coupled to a bus. Each of the in-line switch modules provide isolation for load(s) connected thereto. The Host Bridge in combination with the Control & Power Logic implement the Hot-plug operations such as ramping up and down of the power to a selected slot, and activating the appropriate in-line switches for communication from/to a load (target/controlling master).