A Data Storage Device (DSD) includes a memory for storing data, and a controller configured to execute firmware or code to perform a task. While performing the task, the controller is further configured to assign unique identifiers to respective firmware or code portions that are executed to perform the task, and create a list or data structure including the unique identifier assigned to the firmware or code portion that created the task. A unique identifier is added to the list or data structure for each firmware or code portion executed for the task. The list or data structure indicates the order in which the firmware or code portions are executed.