Locking down USB ports is one of the best security practices to ensure organizations are safe from data loss, data theft, or malware infection. In this post, we will go through the ten best USB lockdown software tools that will help you protect your organization from data theft, data leaks, or malware.

USB pen drives are the most accessible removable media for anyone wanting to steal data or inject malware. An insider can steal sensitive company data stored in servers or workstations with unsecured I/O ports by simply plugging in a USB drive. In addition, an outsider (such as a hacker) could use social engineering techniques like USB baiting or USB scams to inject malware into the network. 

Here is our list of the best USB lockdown software tools:

1. ThreatLocker Storage Control – EDITOR’S CHOICE Blocks all USB devices from attaching to computers on a network. These blocks can be lifted by a central administrator for access by an authorized user. Access a free demo.
2. ManageEngine Device Control Plus – FREE TRIAL An endpoint security solution with a focus on DLP. It lets you monitor, control, and block USBs. Start a 30-day free trial.
3. Acronis DeviceLock DLP – FREE TRIAL An endpoint DLP solution that offers device control and endpoint management. Start a 30-day free trial.
4. CrowdStrike Falcon Device Control A USB lockdown software that gives you full visibility and granular control for safe USB utilization.
5. Endpoint Protector by CoSoSys A DLP solution that can centrally monitor, control, and block USB ports (and other peripherals). 
6. USB-Lock-RP An enterprise-grade device control software, capable of monitoring, controlling, and locking down USB ports.
7. DriveLock Device Control A cloud-based endpoint protection platform, with a focus on zero-trust security, and fantastic USB lockdown capabilities.
8. Symantec Endpoint Protection More than a simple USB lockdown tool, Symantec Endpoint Protection emphasizes data protection. 
9. McAfee DLP Endpoint (now Trellix DLP) An all-in-one DLP solution that integrates Endpoint Protection capabilities, including USB blocking (and much more).
10. Trend Micro IDLP A solution that lets you implement device protection controls and policies, to prevent data loss from USB devices, and other media. 
11. Ivanti Device Control A solution for enforcing data encryption and security policies on USBs or other removable media.

What to consider when looking for a USB lockdown software tool?

A USB lockdown software tool is usually a component or utility from a Device Control or Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solution. These USB lockdown tools are rarely dedicated software specially designed for locking down USBs. 

Most enterprise endpoint protection or antivirus solutions with centralized management usually come with device control capabilities or DLP, which let you block USB devices. These solutions will also allow you to create device allowlists/blocklists, OTPs (One-Time-Passwords), enforce encryption, transfer limits, etc. These tools can even extend to the point that they allow you to block USB drives by vendor, type, product ID, etc. These solutions install on the endpoint (as agents) and are password-protected so that the end-user cannot tweak any settings. 

Recommended features when looking for a USB lookdown tool: 

• Support and identify different USB peripherals. 
• Centralized control to enforce policies and monitor USBs. 
• Automated response to policy violations. 
• Set policies for USB transfer limits.
• Configure allowlists to allow or block certain USBs.
• Active Directory integration.
• Enforce USB encryption. 

Keep in mind that disabling USB storage does not disable USB functionality entirely. USB storage lockdown software prevents the computer from recognizing storage (usbstor values), but the USB port is still alive. This means end-users would still be able to charge their phones or USB-powered devices and use phone apps like tethering to connect to the network. This is why complete endpoint protection with DLP capabilities and Antivirus becomes handy. 

The Best USB Lockdown Software Tools

1. ThreatLocker Storage Control – GET DEMO

ThreatLocker Storage Control is a USB device management package that is available as part of a package of system security tools. The USB manager blocks all storage devices from attaching to a computer on the network by default. Each device is identifiable by a serial number and the system administrator can choose to allow a specific device to connect.

Key Features:

• Storage Control: Sets granular policies over storage devices to keep the data safe and secure from theft and unauthorized access
• Unified Audit: Gives users on the network and remote workers access to a central log of all storage access
• Access Request: Users need to request the access to the storage device from administrators 
• USB Device Blocking: USB policies permit access according to the vendor, file type, or serial number of the device
• Access Rights: Allows only a few specific users to access the storage device for security purposes 
• Logs All File Access Events: Generated log messages can be routed to an SIEM tool for auditing.

Why do we recommend it?

ThreatLocker Storage Control is a centralized solution that offers data security to all your USB storage devices and ensures seamless integration with existing security systems. It prevents any unauthorized user from accessing your confidential data without permission thanks to its granular policies.

The ThreatLocker system is a combination of disabling the ability of equipment and software and an extended access rights management service that selectively reactivates those assets. While typical ARMs apply permission levels for resources when accessed by a named user account, the threatLocker system splits that resource part in two – so you have combinations of software and resources (files, devices, printers, etc) to which users are granted access.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is highly beneficial for organizations that manage sensitive data or security professionals that enforce strict security policies across networks. By default, everything is prohibited, which prevents errors from allowing data to move out of the company.

How to start with ThreatLocker Storage Control? The way to understand the ThreatLocker system is to access the free demo to assess the entire platform, including the Storage Control module.

2. ManageEngine Device Control Plus – FREE TRIAL

The ManageEngine Device Control Plus is an endpoint security solution with a strong focus on data loss prevention. The software lets you monitor in real time and remotely control (block or allow) removable devices such as USB devices, drives, and other peripherals. 

Key Features:

• Detect and Block: Allows only trusted devices and immediately blocks any unverified device on detection 
• Data Security: Prevents unauthorized removable devices from stealing data or injecting malware
• USB Port Security: Prevent unauthorized devices from getting access to your sensitive data and endpoints
• Read-Only: Prevents any third user from deleting or modifying data as they have access to read-only
• Temporary Approval: Admins can provide access to a device or user on a temporary basis

Why do we recommend it?

Rather than preventing data loss, ManageEngine Device Control Plus targets the malware threat infiltrating an endpoint via a USB device. The program does, however, include real-time monitoring, activity logging capabilities, automatic updates, and alert investigators when a file is copied to a removable storage device.

The ManageEngine Device Control Plus comes with a web-based administrative UI console that helps you block and monitor all USB devices easily from a single place. The software provides granular control by allowing you to assign access and data transferring policies and respectively push them to clients. You can also get device and information activity reports from clients. 

Who is it recommended for?

If your organization is constantly worried about endpoint security or unauthorized access, this tool is great for you as it will disable all your USB ports. It is even great for enterprises that demand role-based access control along with monitoring features.

How to start with ManageEngine Device Control? Register to get a fully functional 30-day free trial.

ManageEngine Device Control Plus Start a 30-day FREE Trial

3. Acronis DeviceLock DLP – FREE TRIAL

Acronis DeviceLock DLP is an endpoint data loss prevention (DLP) solution designed to lower the risk of insider data leaks, threats, or data theft. Acronis Device DLP offers device control and endpoint management under the Data Loss Prevention umbrella solution.

Key Features:

• Data Shadowing: Creates duplicate data for backup and redundancy requirements 
• Granular Control: Controls and allows permissions to users at a granular level
• Temporary Access: Allows temporary access to USB devices, for example, read-only options
• OCR Technology: Helps extract and inspect textual data

Why do we recommend it?

Acronis DeviceLock DLP offers forensic investigations and ransomware protection with backup and recovery features. Its OCR capabilities along with fine-grained control and its capacity to analyze the content and context of data transfers make it a great tool for protecting sensitive information.

Acronis DeviceLock uses a simple and lightweight agent deployed on the client. It also offers Active Directory integration and a centralized management console from which you can set and enforce policies. Device Lock is one of the best USB lockdown software because of its flexibility. It can work via local data channels (USB, FireWire, SMBs, etc.) that can be allowed, blocked, alerted, or logged. 

Who is it recommended for?

If your organization is looking for a solution that offers protection against data leaks and insider threats, this solution is a perfect fit for you. Businesses that need to adhere to strict data protection standards, managed service providers, and IT teams that need exact control over data transfers would find it ideal.

How to start with Acronis DeviceLock DLP? Register to download a 30-day free trial.

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4. CrowdStrike Falcon Device Control

CrowdStrike is a leading cloud-native cybersecurity platform built to provide complete protection. The software allows users to use one platform with a single agent to deliver endpoint security, cloud security, threat intelligence, identity protection, and security & IT operations. CrowdStrike’s Falcon Device Control is one of the best USB lockdown software tools that gives you the proper visibility and granular control for safe USB usage. 

Key Features:

• Granular Control: Manage settings and permission at a detailed level and generate detailed insights
• Policy Configuration: Configures security policies and keeps a close watch over USB usage
• Pre-Built Dashboards: Displays insights and key metrics using pre-built dashboards 
• Log Management: Collects and analyzes USB usage logs
• IT Automation: Uses AI-powered techniques and automation functionalities to protect and ensure smooth operations

Why do we recommend it?

One notable feature of CrowdStrike Falcon Device Control is its all-encompassing, cloud-native approach to device security. It provides quick local controls and an integrated dashboard that enables real-time threat detection, tracking, and blocking.

Falcon Device Control uses an agent that can be installed in Windows and macOS systems. Once installed, the software can automatically discover agents within the same network. This agent collects data from the monitored USB device and reports back to the server. Users can also push commands to the agent from the server to limit USB usage. 

Who is it recommended for?

For those working in security teams or IT departments in companies that need a comprehensive cybersecurity solution, especially in settings that are growing or changing quickly, this platform is recommended. For enterprises that rely heavily on the cloud, its cloud-native architecture further qualifies it.

How to start with Falcon Device Control? Contact CrowdStrike customer service for more information. You can also begin with CrowdStrike software by trying Falcon Prevent (a powerful AV) for a 15-day free trial. 

5. Endpoint Protector by CoSoSys

Endpoint Protector by CoSoSys is a cross-platform Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solution. It prevents data leaks and theft and provides granular control for USBs and other portable storage devices. The software can be deployed via virtual appliance, over the popular cloud services, or SaaS. 

Key Features:

• Device Control: Regulates peripheral ports and keeps an eye on USB devices
• Content-Aware Protection: Runs scans, regulates, and stops uncertain file transfers to safeguard all the content
• Enforced Encryption: Converts USB storage device data into an encrypted format for security purposes 
• eDiscovery: Carries out both automatic and manual scans for data at rest
• Compliance: Guarantees that your data complies with SOX and HIPAA regulations.

Why do we recommend it?

With its advanced features and compatibility with multiple operating systems, Endpoint Protector is an effective multi-OS data loss prevention product. Its comprehensive policy, device restrictions, enforced encryption, and eDiscovery capabilities are just a few of the characteristics that make it the best choice for hybrid OS networks.

Endpoint Protector’s Device Control is one of our favorite USB lockdown software tools. It can centrally block, control, and monitor USB (and other peripheral) ports to avoid data loss, theft, or potential USB-borne Malware. The software monitors (remotely) USB ports using a lightweight agent installed on Windows, macOS, or Linux. The agents enforce the policies on the client and are password-protected.

Who is it recommended for?

Businesses of all sizes who want to improve internal data security protocols and avoid data loss should use this software. Businesses that employ various operating systems and languages, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, will find it especially helpful.

How to start with the CoSoSys endpoint protector? Request a demo.

6. USB-Lock-RP

USB-Lock-RP by Advanced International Systems is an enterprise-grade device control software capable of controlling and locking down USB ports. The USB-Lock-RP software provides a centralized platform for managing and monitoring USB devices, including other removable storage, mobile devices, wireless adapters, and groups of computers. 

Key Features:

• Easy to Set: Centralized management tool is quite easy to install and operate
• Device Control: Admins can control the USB or removable devices even in large networks without any hassle
• Group Policy Settings: Allows setting and implementing security configurations, software installation policies, and more for groups of users in real-time 
• Read-Only: Admins can provide read-only or temporary access to specific USB drives
• Export Reports: Users can export detailed reports in CSV format as well

Why do we recommend it?

USB-Lock-RP is one one of the most robust USB device control software solutions that delivers real-time policy enforcement, data encryption, and enterprise-grade control over USB ports and other removable storage. Because of its advanced functions, it’s a great option for businesses that require all-encompassing USB security.

Who is it recommended for?

For enterprise environments where centralized control of USB and other portable devices is essential, this application works well. It’s especially helpful for businesses that need to monitor security rules in real-time and mostly rely on Windows-based machines.

USB-Lock-RP’s centralized management console runs on-premises on Windows machines. The sys admin can configure access policies to control devices and enforce new rules on individual computers or entire groups of computers. In addition, the software also shows alerts and logs, including USB file transfer monitoring.

How to start with USB-Lock-RP? Download the USB-Lock-RP free demo and manage device access for up to five clients. The license price is $20.00 USD per client (for 10-100 clients) and $15.00 USD per client (for 110-500 clients). 

7. DriveLock Device Control

DriveLock is a fully integrated cloud-based endpoint protection platform designed to safeguard a company’s data, devices, and systems. The software uses a zero-trust approach (never trust, always verify) and its team of security experts to achieve a high degree of security. DriveLock’s solutions are certified with the Common Criteria EAL3+ certificate, a global security standard.

Key Features:

• Monitoring Capabilities: Keeps a close track of all the USB devices and their data transfers 
• Encryption: Encrypts all the USB devices and removable devices automatically for more security 
• Reporting: Comes with forensic investigations and in-depth reporting capabilities 
• Device Configuration: Uses machine learning and artificial intelligence methods to streamline and automate the configuration of integrated devices

Why do we recommend it?

With features like data transfer monitoring and automated USB encryption, DriveLock Device Control offers a strong multi-layered endpoint security solution. The software’s accreditation with Common Criteria EAL3+ further validates its reputation as a provider of high-level security.

DriveLock’s Device Control is a fantastic USB lockdown software tool. It allows organizations to protect themselves from unauthorized or unencrypted USB devices and data transfers. With DriveLock, you can also create allowlists to permit specific devices and deny others. You can deploy DriveLock on-premise or via their cloud solution.

Who is it recommended for?

For businesses looking for an all-inclusive, certified endpoint security solution, DriveLock is great. It’s especially helpful for companies that need to have both on-premises and cloud deployment options and employ a zero-trust security posture.

How to start with DriveLock Device Control? Register to download a 30-day free trial. 

8. Symantec Endpoint Protection

Symantec Endpoint Protection by Broadcom is an excellent choice if you are looking for more capabilities than simply locking down USBs. This solution might seem feature-overkill for people only looking to lock down USB ports. The software also includes capabilities for intrusion prevention, firewall, anti-malware, and the foundational features of DLP software. It deploys in on-premise, cloud, or hybrid environments.

Key Features:

• Detect and Response: Uses innovative technologies to detect and protect traditional and mobile endpoint devices
• Endpoint Management: Provides in-depth insights into endpoints inside and outside the perimeter for better security 
• Block Unauthorized Devices: On noticing unknown or unauthorized USB flash drives, it automatically blocks all data transfers
• Centralized Management: Uses a single console to manage and monitor all the endpoints

Why do we recommend it?

Symantec Endpoint Protection is not only limited to providing USB lockdowns, but comes with various other capabilities and security solutions that make it a great product. Its low false positive rate due to machine learning and AI makes it an excellent choice for several tiers of endpoint protection.

Symantec Endpoint Protection (SEP) emphasizes data. It protects data wherever it lives; at endpoints, desktops, cloud workloads, mobiles, servers, apps, containers, and storage devices. SEP includes an application and device control policy that lets you block all USB drives, from pen drives to hard drives on the clients. The software can also identify hardware IDs to help create allowlists and permit or stop specific USB drives or peripherals. 

Who is it recommended for?

Medium to large sized businesses might find it an ideal solution for it offers intrusion prevention and anti-malware features along with USB port lockdown. It will also be highly beneficial for organizations that need various deployment options, such as on-premise, cloud, or hybrid.

How to start with Symantec Endpoint Protection? Contact sales to request a demo or trial.

9. McAfee DLP Endpoint (Now Trellix DLP)

McAfee Data Loss Prevention, now Trellix DLP, is an all-in-one DLP solution including McAfee DLP Discover, McAfee DLP Prevent, McAfee DLP Monitor, McAfee DLP Endpoint, McAfee Device Control, and MVISION Cloud Integration. The McAfee DLP Endpoint can provide USB lockdown capabilities and so much more. It covers all data leaking channels, including USBs, removable media, email, IM, web, cloud, printing, screen captures, clipboard, file-sharing applications, etc. 

Key Features:

• Ransomware Protection: Identifies and responds to threats like ransomware in real-time 
• Zero-Trust Strategy: Provides visibility into endpoint operations, traffic, and cloud security posture and eliminates blind spots
• AI-Powered Operations: Uses AI to reduce alert noise and automate response

Why do we recommend it?

McAfee DLP Endpoint excels when it comes to offering thorough protection against data leaks across a variety of channels, not just USBs. it is even good in terms of AI-powered operations, providing real-time notifications and strong policy management.

The solution works on-premise but can also be extended to the cloud with its integration to MVISION Cloud. This approach ensures that sys admins can also extend the on-premise DLP policies to the cloud. The native integration to MVISION ePO helps simplify policy and incident management. 

Who is it recommended for?

Businesses of all sizes can invest in this tool to prevent data loss across different platforms. Even businesses that are complex in nature and demand compliance with strict data protection rules and regulations will find it especially helpful.

How to start with McAfee DLP? Request a Free Demo.

10. Trend Micro IDLP

Trend Micro Integrated Data Loss Prevention (IDLP) (for Business) is a solution that combines with other Trend Micro solutions (such as Apex One Endpoint Security) and management consoles. IDLP lets you implement device protection controls and policies and improve visibility. With IDLP, you can prevent data loss from USB devices or other media such as email, SaaS apps, web, or cloud storage. 

Key Features:

• Automated Threat Detection: Automatically identifies threats like ransomware and fileless and provides endpoint protection
• Centralized Visibility: Provides clear visibility into all endpoints and devices from a central console 
• Integration Support: Allows users to seamlessly integrate with SIEM solutions in an efficient manner

Why do we recommend it?

Trend Micro IDLP stands out with providing comprehensive device control and data loss prevention rules across several media platforms. It helps expand the scope of threat visibility throughout the entire business by improving detection, investigation, and response capabilities across several security layers.

Trend Micro IDLP uses a lightweight agent installed on clients, which gives you visibility and control over your USB ports. You can restrict specific USB devices while allowing others. When the software detects a violation, you can configure it to automatically respond with actions like logging, blocking, encrypting, alerting, bypassing, modifying, quarantining, or deleting data. 

Who is it recommended for?

Businesses that want a thorough and integrated approach to prevent data loss across several platforms, like USB devices, emails, and cloud storage, will find this solution highly appropriate. Because of its templates that are already configured, it is also perfect for companies that need to comply with different regulations.

How to start with Trend Micro IDLP? Register to start an Apex One Endpoint Security free SaaS trial that integrates with IDLP.

11. Ivanti Device Control 

Ivanti Device Control is a solution that allows you to enforce data encryption and security policies on USBs and other removable media. Ivanti Device Control is one of the best USB lockdown software because it will enable you to quickly lock down and re-take control of devices (such as USBs) highly associated with data loss and malware infection. 

Key Features:

• Endpoint Encryption: Lets you quickly implement data encryption and safety measures for removable devices
• Detect and Block: Offers visibility and prevents unknown apps from getting installed by identifying and locking endpoints 
• Transparency Across Silos: Enables you to respond and be proactive for the emerging security risks

Why do we recommend it?

Ivanti Device Control stands out for its robust, centralized platform and scalable protection capabilities that make it a great product for most organizations. Using this tool, you can manage and monitor multiple endpoints and lock down unknown apps, reducing your attack surface.

Ivanti discovers every endpoint where a client has been deployed. These discovered devices can be managed and controlled from a single console. The system uses a zero-trust approach, so you’ll be able to set allowlists, where you define which devices are allowed (while the rest are blocked). You can then enforce the security policies for the specific USB devices (determined by type or ID). 

Who is it recommended for?

Large organizations with complex network systems and the ones that demand centralized control might find it an ideal option. With its smooth integration with Windows Active Directory, it provides granular permissions depending on user roles, making it particularly helpful for enterprises that follow a zero-trust security strategy.

How to start with Ivanti Device Control? Request a free demo. 

USB Lockdown Software FAQs