A data analyzer for analyzing an incoming data stream, comprising a pattern matcher adapted for comparing in a first step the first data stream with a first data pattern and in a second step a second data stream with a second data pattern and for generating a match signal indicative of a match between the first data stream and the first data pattern or between the second data stream and the second data pattern, a trace memory adapted for storing a part of the first data stream dependent on the match signal of the first step, and for outputting stored data as second data stream in a second step and a data switch adapted for receiving the first data stream and the second data stream, and to be set in the first step to a first state for providing the pattern matcher with the first data stream and in the second step to a second state for providing the pattern matcher with the second data stream.