The USB blocker software market has a projected growth of $7.89 billion by 2030, reflecting increasing enterprise focus on preventing data exfiltration via removable storage devices.1
Based on our DLP review benchmark, user reviews & feature comparisons, here are the top 10 USB Blocking Software alternatives. See why we selected them by following the links below:
- Netwrix Endpoint Protector for strong device control
- Trellix Endpoint DLP
- SafeticaONE Protection DLP
- Symantec Endpoint DLP
- Microsoft Intune for easy integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
- ThreatLocker Storage Control
- Forcepoint DLP
- GTB Endpoint Enterprise DLP
- Fortra Digital Guardian Endpoint DLP
- ManageEngine Device Control Plus
Unmanaged devices increase data breach risk. Control over devices, including USBs, is key to effective cybersecurity.
See the top USB-blocking software with key features such as USB encryption, content inspection, and reporting capabilities:
Top USB blocking software comparison
Features
Product | USB encryption | Content inspection | Reporting |
|---|---|---|---|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
Trellix DLP Endpoint Complete | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Safetica | ❌* | ✅ | ❌* |
ThreatLocker | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Microsoft Intune API | ❌* | ❌* | ✅ |
Symantec Data Loss Prevention | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Forcepoint DLP Data Loss Prevention | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Fortra's Digital Guardian | ❌* | ✅ | ✅ |
GTB Technologies DLP | ❌* | ✅ | ✅ |
Device Control Plus by ManageEngine | ❌* | ✅ | ✅ |
*Available if third-party integrations support the solution.
See the definitions for common and differentiating features.
User ratings & reviews
*Based on the total number of reviews and average ratings (on a 5-point scale) from leading software review platforms.
**The number of employees is gathered from publicly available resources (i.e., LinkedIn).
Ranking: Vendors with links are sponsors and listed at the top. Other products are ranked based on their total number of reviews.
If you are looking for free USB blocking software, see free alternatives to USB blocking software.
Top 10 USB blocking software analyzed
1. Netwrix Endpoint Protector
Netwrix Endpoint Protector is an endpoint DLP solution with strong USB and peripheral device control. It lets IT teams block, monitor, or allow USB storage based on user, device, or policy. It also supports content inspection to prevent sensitive data from being copied to external drives.
Pros
- Granular access control: Our tests showed that Endpoint Protector supports granular access control across 30+ device types. Administrators can set access rights based on devices (see our DLP review for more on Endpoint Protector’s DLP capabilities).
- USB encryption: EasyLock encrypts data on USB devices. Additionally, you can enable automatic encryption.
- Ease of use: We found the application easy to use, with helpful explanations in the menu.
Cons
- Log reports: Log reports need to be more detailed.
Choose Netwrix Endpoint Protector for a comprehensive USB and device control solution.
Visit Website2. Trellix DLP Endpoint Complete
Trellix Endpoint DLP focuses on preventing sensitive data from leaving company devices. It can control USB storage, apply encryption, and enforce policies based on data type. It integrates with broader Trellix security tools for centralized management.
Recent enhancements:
Q2 2025 Features: Added Optical Character Recognition (OCR), extracting text from images and PDFs, text upload blocking, preventing data submission through web forms and GenAI interfaces, and AirDrop protection for macOS.2
ARM Support: It supports ARM-compatible devices running on Snapdragon chipsets, providing complete data protection for Windows laptops, PCs, and servers powered by ARM processors.3
3. SafeticaONE Protection DLP
Safetica ONE includes endpoint DLP and device control features. It allows organizations to restrict or monitor USB devices and prevent unauthorized file transfers. Policies can be set by department, user, or data category.
4. Symantec Endpoint DLP
Symantec Endpoint DLP by Broadcom provides endpoint device control and data protection. It can block or limit USB storage and inspect files for sensitive content before transfer. It supports compliance use cases such as GDPR and PCI DSS.
Multiple reviewers found the database configuration unmanageable, so 3rd-party tools had to be downloaded.
5. Microsoft Intune
Microsoft Intune is an endpoint management tool within Microsoft 365. It allows admins to control removable storage, apply encryption policies, and restrict USB access on Windows devices. It is suitable for organizations already using Microsoft 365.
MAM Enforcement: Intune now enforces mandatory SDK updates for Mobile Application Management. Organizations must ensure iOS and Android apps run the latest SDK versions to prevent user lockouts from accessing corporate applications, including Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive.4
Enhanced USB Control: Settings Catalog now includes Android Enterprise USB access controls, allowing granular management of USB file/data transfer permissions.5
The user is satisfied with the product’s compliance, device management, and overall data protection capabilities. Multiple reviewers have stated that Microsoft Intune is insufficient for reporting and have opted for Microsoft Configuration Manager.
6. ThreatLocker Storage Control
ThreatLocker Storage Control focuses on blocking unauthorized USB devices. It uses allowlisting, meaning only approved devices can connect. This reduces the risk of malware or data theft through removable media.
ThreatLocker continues to advance its Zero Trust platform at the Zero Trust World 2026 conference, emphasizing a deny-by-default security posture across storage devices, applications, and network resources.
Reviewers are happy with the product’s USB access control, including the ability to block USB devices.
7. Forcepoint DLP
Forcepoint DLP provides endpoint and network data protection. It can block or monitor USB storage and apply policies based on data sensitivity. It includes centralized reporting for compliance tracking.
The reviewer praises the product’s content inspection features, including protection of sensitive data. However, they claimed the deployment process was cumbersome.
8. GTB Endpoint Enterprise DLP
GTB Endpoint Enterprise DLP offers device control and content-aware data protection. It can restrict USB ports and scan files for sensitive information before allowing transfers. It supports both on-premise and cloud deployment.
Most reviewers are satisfied with the product’s functionalities, such as content inspection and monitoring.
9. Fortra Digital Guardian Endpoint DLP
Fortra DLP agent-based endpoint DLP that records transfers and can block suspicious USB activity. It is suited for sensitive IP and regulated data protection.
10. ManageEngine Device Control Plus
I is a USB-blocking tool with role-based policies, trusted-device lists, and temporary access options. It allows IT teams to block, allow, or monitor external storage devices. Detailed logs help track file transfers and support compliance audits.
The product is easy to deploy and helps manage file access permissions.
USB drop attacks
Malicious software is intended to be distributed via a cybercrime tactic known as USB drop attacks. Virus-laden USB drives are placed in areas where people inadvertently connect them to PCs. According to Statista, 30% of companies experienced 11 to 50 malicious USB drop attacks.6
Security firm Mandiant discovered that a China-based group, UNC53, carried out USB drop attacks and targeted 180 organizations at crowded locations worldwide, such as airport cafes and printing service shops.7
Security Updates & Patches
Microsoft’s cumulative updates addressed 3 zero-day vulnerabilities and 114 security flaws, but temporarily disrupted Intune device management and Remote Desktop authentication. Organizations experienced device unenrollments that required manual re-enrollment in Azure AD. Microsoft released an out-of-band patch, KB5077744, to resolve authentication issues.8
What is USB blocking software?
USB blocking software, also known as USB port control or USB device management software, is an application that monitors and manages USB devices connected to a computer or network. This software enables administrators to control and restrict USB port and device access for security and compliance.
USB blocking software key features
1. Access control: The software enables administrators to set permissions for specific users or user groups regarding the use of USB devices. This could include allowing read-only access, granting read-and-write access, or blocking USB port access entirely.
2. Logging and monitoring: USB blocking software typically logs all USB device activities, including device insertion and removal, file transfer events, and attempts to use unauthorized devices. This helps administrators track USB usage and identify potential security breaches.
3. Policy implementation: Administrators can create and implement policies governing USB usage across the organization. These policies may include restrictions on certain types of USB devices, time-based access controls, or compliance requirements.
4. Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Some USB blocking software includes DLP features to prevent sensitive data from being copied to unauthorized USB devices. This may involve content inspection, encryption, or preventing the transfer of specific file types via USB.
5. Remote management: The ability to manage USB device policies and monitor activities remotely across multiple computers or endpoints is a common feature of USB blocking software.
See how our DLP review takes these features into account.
Why do you need USB blocking software?
USB blocking software is often used for security purposes in organizations or environments where controlling access to USB ports is necessary. Here are some reasons why USB blocking software may be needed:
- Preventing data theft: USB ports can transfer sensitive data outside the organization’s network. By blocking USB ports, organizations can prevent unauthorized users from stealing or copying confidential information.
- Compliance requirements: USB blocking software helps organizations maintain compliance with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
- Monitoring and auditing: These capabilities enable administrators to track USB usage and identify potential security risks or policy violations.
Common features of USB blocking software
We selected the vendors that deliver:
- Access control: Set user-specific permissions for USB device usage.
- Logging and monitoring: Automatically record all USB activities.
- Policy management: Enforce organization-wide USB policies.
- Data loss prevention (DLP): Integrate features like content inspection and encryption.
- Remote management: Manage policies and monitor devices across networks.
Differentiating features of USB blocking software
- Encryption for USB drives: Data on USB drives is encrypted using algorithms such as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) or third-party tools like BitLocker or FileVault.
- Content inspection: Analyzing data to identify sensitive or confidential information and categorizing data according to its sensitivity level. For example, the system prevents the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data.9
- Reporting: Helps administrators monitor policy compliance by generating reports that highlight violations or exceptions.
FAQs
USB blocking software plays a critical role in data security by blocking USB ports and restricting the use of personal USB devices and other removable devices. It helps safeguard sensitive data from unauthorized transfer, preventing data leaks and potential breaches. Key features such as automatic encryption, USB encryption, and data loss prevention ensure that confidential information remains protected even if a flash drive or other storage device is lost or stolen. This software also generates reports on USB activity, enabling organizations to monitor file transfers and maintain robust endpoint security.
Modern USB blocking solutions offer comprehensive device management features, allowing administrators to control USB port access for all connected USB devices. They can set detailed access permissions for specific devices, monitor USB activity, and generate reports on file transfers and hardware IDs. This level of USB device control helps block untrusted devices and unwanted users. It supports endpoint protection by ensuring that only trusted devices are allowed, thereby reducing the risk of malware infection and unauthorized data transfers.
USB blocker software can be seamlessly deployed as part of your endpoint security solution and integrates directly with your operating system. Its key features include locking or restricting USB ports, enforcing access permissions with a master password, automatically encrypting USB storage devices, and inspecting content to identify sensitive data. Additionally, it offers robust reporting capabilities that track USB activity, helping organizations generate detailed reports for compliance and audit purposes. This comprehensive approach to USB device control and data protection prevents unauthorized access and protects both personal and professional data.
Further reading
Reference Links
Cem's work has been cited by leading global publications including Business Insider, Forbes, Washington Post, global firms like Deloitte, HPE and NGOs like World Economic Forum and supranational organizations like European Commission. You can see more reputable companies and resources that referenced AIMultiple.
Throughout his career, Cem served as a tech consultant, tech buyer and tech entrepreneur. He advised enterprises on their technology decisions at McKinsey & Company and Altman Solon for more than a decade. He also published a McKinsey report on digitalization.
He led technology strategy and procurement of a telco while reporting to the CEO. He has also led commercial growth of deep tech company Hypatos that reached a 7 digit annual recurring revenue and a 9 digit valuation from 0 within 2 years. Cem's work in Hypatos was covered by leading technology publications like TechCrunch and Business Insider.
Cem regularly speaks at international technology conferences. He graduated from Bogazici University as a computer engineer and holds an MBA from Columbia Business School.
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The next time you're looking for USB blocking software to review, we'd love for you to check out AccessPatrol. Just like many of these USB DLP solutions AccessPatrol can block unauthorized portable storage devices, allow trusted devices, provide insights into file transfers/uploads/downloads, allow temporary access to portable storage devices, and much more. If you'd like to learn more you can check out our product page, try a free trial, or request a custom demo with our team! https://www.currentware.com/products/accesspatrol/block-usb/
Hi Dale, thank you for your comment, We are now including the largest DLP providers in the market based on publicly available data like their number of employees or reviews. Once your solution reaches the top 10 based on these metrics or once we increase the number of products that we feature on this page, we are happy to include AccessPatrol.