The method and system to computes an LFA next hop as a backup for a primary path next hop that enables an administrator to control LFA selection for a given destination node using a tag and a weight. The method includes checking whether an interface of a next candidate node has a tag with a tag value matching a tag value of a primary SPF path for the destination node. The method further includes checking whether the destination node has any LFA, checking whether a stored tag differs from the tag value of the primary SPF path, and checking whether the interface of the next candidate node is preferred based on a comparison of a weight values, and replacing a stored LFA for the destination node with the next candidate node. Where conditions are met a stored LFA is replaced with the next candidate node.