Disable USB Drives: Security Guide

TL;DR

USB drives pose a significant cyber security risk due to malware spread and data theft. This guide provides practical steps for disabling them on Windows systems using Group Policy, Registry edits (for advanced users), and Device Manager. It also covers BIOS settings where available.

Disabling USB Drives: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Risks
• Malware infection: USB drives can easily carry viruses and ransomware.
• Data breaches: Sensitive information can be copied without authorisation.
• Loss of control: Unapproved devices connecting to your network.
2. Method 1: Group Policy (Best for Managed Networks)

   This is the preferred method for businesses and organisations using Active Directory.

   1. Open Group Policy Management (gpedit.msc).
   2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access.
   3. Double-click Removable Disks.
   4. Select Enabled to deny access. You can choose to block read/write access or all access.
   5. Click Apply and then OK.
   6. Run gpupdate /force in Command Prompt (as administrator) to apply the changes immediately.

      gpupdate /force

3. Method 2: Registry Edit (Advanced Users Only – Use with Caution!)

   Incorrect registry edits can cause system instability. Back up your registry before proceeding.

   1. Open the Registry Editor (regedit).
   2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesUSBSTOR.
   3. Find the value named Start.
   4. Double-click Start and change its value data to 4 to disable USB storage. A value of 3 enables it.

      Value Data: 4

   5. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

   Warning: Modifying the registry incorrectly can lead to serious problems. Only proceed if you are comfortable with this process.

4. Method 3: Device Manager (Temporary, User-Specific)

   This method disables USB controllers but is easily reversible by a user with admin rights.

   1. Open Device Manager (devmgmt.msc).
   2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
   3. Right-click on each USB controller and select Disable device.
   4. Confirm the disable action when prompted.
5. Method 4: BIOS Settings (Most Secure, Hardware Level)

   This is the most effective method but varies depending on your motherboard manufacturer.

   1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing Del, F2, or another key during startup – check your motherboard manual).
   2. Look for USB configuration options. These may be under Boot, Advanced, or Security settings.
   3. Disable USB ports entirely or disable booting from USB devices.
   4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.

   Note: The exact steps for accessing and modifying BIOS settings vary significantly between manufacturers.

6. Testing
   • After implementing any of these methods, test by attempting to connect a USB drive. It should not be recognised or accessible.
7. Exceptions (If Required)

   In some cases, you may need to allow specific USB devices. Group Policy allows for whitelisting based on device ID.