A network component for processing a packet can include a rules table configured to have a plurality of entries, and sets of first storage units within each one of the plurality of entries. The sets of first storage units are configured to store sets of range checking parameters with respect to the packet. The sets of range checking parameters can identify a plurality of packet field values and a plurality of range values. In addition, the network component can include an action implementation unit configured to implement at least one first action with respect to the packet when at least one of the plurality of packet field values falls within a corresponding pair of range values for one of the plurality of entries. The action implementation unit is also configured to implement at least one second action with respect to the packet when each one of the plurality of packet field values falls within each corresponding pair of range values for one of the plurality of entries, and the action implementation unit can implement at least one third action with respect to the packet when each one of the plurality of the packet field values does not fall within each corresponding pair of range values.