How in the Tech

Blocking Access to USB Ports

By Adam Myers ⋅ May 7, 2009 ⋅ Tags: System Administration

USB Thumb drives are prevalent in offices and homes alike mainly because they are a very convenient and easy way to move data from PC to PC. With great power and flexibility comes a measurable amount of responsibility. System Administrators are used to dealing with online security threats from viruses but many overlook the local attacks that can originate from within their own network. USB provides another mechanism that malware can spread from computer to computer. Furthermore, USB ports can facilitate the leaking of corporate intellectual property which, for many organizations, can be worse than a serious virus outbreak.

USB Blocker is a free for private use application that can restrict access via a computers USB ports. What makes USB Blocker unique is that it is not necessary to install the software on a client computer. Instead it uses Windows Group Policy which integrates nicely in an Active Directory environment – where you may sit back and manage your network of PCs from a central location, remotely. Installation and integration is about as straightforward as it can be. In just a few simple clicks the USB ports on the entire network can be securely locked down.

A commercial license is also available that extends the functionality by supporting other devices such as iPods or USB based WiFi adapters. Either version is available from the NetWrix website after a brief registration process. Don’t worry about being spammed or nagged by a sales team after a download, the registration page does not validate your email address. What do you have to lose?