Methods and apparatus for processing a trace mismatch by using hardware to detect a change in a trace string and software to perform string analysis are disclosed. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method for detecting a trace identifier mismatch using a detection system with a hardware component and a software component includes detecting a change in trace information associated with the path using the hardware component. The method also includes providing an indication of the change in trace information using the hardware component, obtaining the indication from the hardware component using the software component, and analyzing the trace information using the software component to determine if a trace identifier mismatch is present.