Quick Overview
- 1#1: Endpoint Protector - Delivers comprehensive USB device control, encryption, and content-aware data loss prevention to secure endpoints.
- 2#2: DeviceLock - Provides granular control over USB ports, peripherals, and storage devices to prevent unauthorized data access.
- 3#3: Symantec Data Loss Prevention - Enterprise DLP solution with advanced USB monitoring, blocking, and policy enforcement for data protection.
- 4#4: McAfee Device Control - Integrated endpoint security tool that blocks and manages USB devices to mitigate data exfiltration risks.
- 5#5: ManageEngine Device Control Plus - Centralized platform for USB whitelisting, shadowing, and remote blocking in enterprise environments.
- 6#6: Kaspersky Endpoint Security - Offers USB device control alongside antivirus and encryption to protect against malware via removable media.
- 7#7: Trend Micro Apex One - Next-generation endpoint platform with device control features to restrict USB access and behaviors.
- 8#8: ESET Endpoint Protection - Lightweight endpoint security with USB blocker and customizable device access policies.
- 9#9: CurrentWare USB Block - Simple Windows tool to instantly block USB storage devices and prevent unauthorized data transfers.
- 10#10: GiliSoft USB Lock - Affordable utility that locks USB ports, drives, and folders to safeguard data on personal computers.
We prioritized tools based on advanced features (granular control, encryption, DLP), proven threat-blocking efficacy, user-friendliness, and value across enterprise and personal contexts, ensuring alignment with diverse security requirements.
Comparison Table
In an era where data protection is paramount, securing USB devices against unauthorized access is a critical component of organizational security. This comparison table explores leading tools like Endpoint Protector, DeviceLock, Symantec Data Loss Prevention, McAfee Device Control, ManageEngine Device Control Plus, and more, offering insights into features, effectiveness, and usability. Readers will gain clarity to select the solution that best fits their specific security requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Endpoint Protector Delivers comprehensive USB device control, encryption, and content-aware data loss prevention to secure endpoints. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | DeviceLock Provides granular control over USB ports, peripherals, and storage devices to prevent unauthorized data access. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Symantec Data Loss Prevention Enterprise DLP solution with advanced USB monitoring, blocking, and policy enforcement for data protection. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | McAfee Device Control Integrated endpoint security tool that blocks and manages USB devices to mitigate data exfiltration risks. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | ManageEngine Device Control Plus Centralized platform for USB whitelisting, shadowing, and remote blocking in enterprise environments. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Kaspersky Endpoint Security Offers USB device control alongside antivirus and encryption to protect against malware via removable media. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Trend Micro Apex One Next-generation endpoint platform with device control features to restrict USB access and behaviors. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | ESET Endpoint Protection Lightweight endpoint security with USB blocker and customizable device access policies. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | CurrentWare USB Block Simple Windows tool to instantly block USB storage devices and prevent unauthorized data transfers. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | GiliSoft USB Lock Affordable utility that locks USB ports, drives, and folders to safeguard data on personal computers. | other | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
Delivers comprehensive USB device control, encryption, and content-aware data loss prevention to secure endpoints.
Provides granular control over USB ports, peripherals, and storage devices to prevent unauthorized data access.
Enterprise DLP solution with advanced USB monitoring, blocking, and policy enforcement for data protection.
Integrated endpoint security tool that blocks and manages USB devices to mitigate data exfiltration risks.
Centralized platform for USB whitelisting, shadowing, and remote blocking in enterprise environments.
Offers USB device control alongside antivirus and encryption to protect against malware via removable media.
Next-generation endpoint platform with device control features to restrict USB access and behaviors.
Lightweight endpoint security with USB blocker and customizable device access policies.
Simple Windows tool to instantly block USB storage devices and prevent unauthorized data transfers.
Affordable utility that locks USB ports, drives, and folders to safeguard data on personal computers.
Endpoint Protector
enterpriseDelivers comprehensive USB device control, encryption, and content-aware data loss prevention to secure endpoints.
Content-Aware Protection that performs deep content scanning and blocks transfers of sensitive data (e.g., PII, IP) in real-time across USB devices
Endpoint Protector is a comprehensive endpoint data loss prevention (DLP) solution specializing in USB security, offering advanced device control to block unauthorized removable media, enforce encryption, and prevent data exfiltration. It features content-aware protection that scans files in real-time for sensitive information before allowing transfers, along with centralized policy management across Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints. Additional modules include file server DLP, network protection, and eDiscovery for compliance and auditing.
Pros
- Granular device control with whitelisting, blacklisting, and user-based policies
- Real-time content inspection and blocking of sensitive data on USBs
- Cross-platform support and on-premises/cloud deployment flexibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex policy configuration
- Quote-based pricing lacks transparency for small businesses
- Requires agent deployment on all endpoints
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing robust, policy-driven USB and endpoint security to comply with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; starts at approximately €25-€50 per endpoint per year depending on edition (Basic, Standard, Enterprise) and volume.
DeviceLock
specializedProvides granular control over USB ports, peripherals, and storage devices to prevent unauthorized data access.
ContentLock with regex-based filtering and shadow copying to inspect and capture data even on blocked transfers
DeviceLock is a robust endpoint security solution focused on preventing data leaks through USB devices, peripherals, and network resources on Windows systems. It offers granular control policies, content filtering, and auditing capabilities to block unauthorized data transfers while allowing approved usage. The software supports centralized management via group policies and provides shadow copying for monitoring attempted exfiltrations.
Pros
- Highly granular USB and peripheral device control with user/group-based policies
- Advanced content filtering and shadow copy for data leak prevention
- Comprehensive auditing, reporting, and integration with Active Directory
Cons
- Primarily Windows-centric with limited cross-platform support
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Higher pricing may deter small businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring detailed USB security and data loss prevention policies across distributed Windows endpoints.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$49 per endpoint with annual maintenance; volume discounts and subscription options available.
Symantec Data Loss Prevention
enterpriseEnterprise DLP solution with advanced USB monitoring, blocking, and policy enforcement for data protection.
Content-Aware Removable Storage Protection that scans and blocks sensitive data on USB devices in real-time using ML and exact data matching.
Symantec Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is an enterprise-grade solution that provides robust USB security through its endpoint protection module, monitoring and controlling data transfers to and from removable media like USB drives. It employs content-aware policies, machine learning, and predefined data identifiers to detect sensitive information and block unauthorized exfiltration. The tool offers granular device control, including whitelisting/blacklisting USB devices and encryption enforcement, integrated within a broader DLP framework for endpoints, networks, and cloud.
Pros
- Advanced content inspection and policy enforcement for USB transfers
- Comprehensive incident response and forensic reporting
- Seamless integration with Symantec endpoint security ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial deployment
- High cost unsuitable for small businesses
- Resource-intensive endpoint agent performance
Best For
Large enterprises requiring integrated USB security as part of comprehensive data loss prevention across multiple channels.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically $50-120 per endpoint annually; volume discounts and quotes required.
McAfee Device Control
enterpriseIntegrated endpoint security tool that blocks and manages USB devices to mitigate data exfiltration risks.
Device fingerprinting that uniquely identifies USB devices beyond standard IDs, even if they change
McAfee Device Control is an enterprise-grade solution within the McAfee Endpoint Security suite that prevents data exfiltration and malware spread by enforcing strict policies on USB drives, Bluetooth devices, and other peripherals. It offers granular whitelisting, blacklisting, and monitoring capabilities, including device fingerprinting and shadow mode for testing policies without enforcement. Administrators benefit from centralized management via McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO), detailed auditing, and compliance reporting to meet regulatory standards.
Pros
- Granular control with device fingerprinting and peripheral switching support
- Seamless integration with McAfee endpoint suite and ePO for centralized management
- Comprehensive auditing, reporting, and shadow mode for safe policy testing
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-experts
- Not available as a standalone product; requires McAfee ecosystem
- Enterprise pricing may be high for small businesses
Best For
Large enterprises and organizations needing robust, integrated USB security within a broader endpoint protection platform.
Pricing
Bundled with McAfee Endpoint Security; subscriptions start at ~$60 per endpoint/year, with custom enterprise quotes via sales.
ManageEngine Device Control Plus
enterpriseCentralized platform for USB whitelisting, shadowing, and remote blocking in enterprise environments.
Shadow Copy mode that silently duplicates USB file transfers for forensic auditing without blocking users
ManageEngine Device Control Plus is a robust endpoint security solution focused on controlling USB devices and peripherals to prevent data leakage and unauthorized access. It offers granular policy management, allowing admins to block devices by type, ID, user, or content, while enforcing encryption and providing shadow copy features for auditing. The tool integrates with Active Directory for centralized management and delivers detailed reports for compliance tracking.
Pros
- Granular device control policies based on user, group, and device ID
- Comprehensive auditing with shadow copy and file transfer logs
- Seamless integration with Active Directory and endpoint agents
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger deployments
- User interface feels somewhat dated and complex for beginners
- Limited support for non-Windows endpoints
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises and IT admins needing detailed USB and peripheral access controls with strong compliance reporting.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $795/year for 50 endpoints; scales with more devices and includes free trial.
Kaspersky Endpoint Security
enterpriseOffers USB device control alongside antivirus and encryption to protect against malware via removable media.
Advanced USB Device Control with customizable rules for device types, serial numbers, and user/group permissions
Kaspersky Endpoint Security is a comprehensive enterprise-grade security solution that includes robust USB security features like device control, real-time scanning, and encryption management. It allows administrators to block unauthorized USB devices, restrict access by type or ID, and prevent data exfiltration through portable media. As part of a full endpoint protection platform, it integrates USB safeguards with antivirus, firewall, and application control for layered defense.
Pros
- Granular USB device control with whitelisting, blacklisting, and policy-based restrictions
- Real-time scanning and autorun blocking for USB media
- Centralized management via Kaspersky Security Center for enterprise deployments
Cons
- Complex setup and configuration suited more for IT pros than casual users
- Resource-intensive on endpoints, potentially impacting performance
- Pricing geared toward businesses, less ideal for individuals or small teams
Best For
Medium to large enterprises requiring integrated endpoint and USB security with advanced policy controls.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at approximately $30-50 per endpoint per year depending on volume and features.
Trend Micro Apex One
enterpriseNext-generation endpoint platform with device control features to restrict USB access and behaviors.
Granular USB Device Control with support for custom policies, encryption enforcement, and real-time scanning of removable media
Trend Micro Apex One is a comprehensive endpoint protection platform designed for enterprises, offering next-generation antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and advanced device control features specifically for USB security. It enables granular policies to block unauthorized USB devices, enforce encryption, whitelist approved hardware, and scan removable media for threats in real-time. The solution integrates predictive machine learning and behavioral analysis to proactively detect and mitigate USB-borne malware, ransomware, and data exfiltration attempts.
Pros
- Robust USB device control with granular whitelisting, blocking, and encryption policies
- Integrated EDR and AI-driven threat detection for proactive USB malware prevention
- Centralized cloud-based management console for scalable deployment across endpoints
Cons
- Complex setup and configuration requiring IT expertise
- Higher resource usage on endpoints compared to lighter USB-only tools
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking an all-in-one endpoint security solution with strong USB control capabilities.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $35-50 per endpoint per year, with volume discounts for enterprises; includes cloud management.
ESET Endpoint Protection
enterpriseLightweight endpoint security with USB blocker and customizable device access policies.
Device Control module offering rule-based USB access enforcement (e.g., by device ID, user, or medium type)
ESET Endpoint Protection is a robust enterprise-grade security suite that excels in USB security through its advanced Device Control module, enabling granular management of USB devices to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches. It scans removable media in real-time for malware, exploits, and ransomware while enforcing policies like blocking, whitelisting, or read-only modes. This makes it ideal for organizations aiming to mitigate USB-borne threats without compromising productivity.
Pros
- Highly effective Device Control for customizable USB policies (block, whitelist, read-only)
- Superior malware detection on USB media with low false positives
- Lightweight performance with minimal impact on endpoint systems
Cons
- Enterprise-focused interface with a learning curve for non-IT admins
- Pricing scales per endpoint, costly for small teams
- USB features are bundled in broader suite, not standalone
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring detailed USB device management alongside full endpoint protection.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$42/endpoint/year for Endpoint Antivirus; advanced protection with Device Control ~$60+/endpoint/year.
CurrentWare USB Block
specializedSimple Windows tool to instantly block USB storage devices and prevent unauthorized data transfers.
Granular device ID-based whitelisting that allows approved hardware while blocking all others
CurrentWare USB Block is a security solution designed to prevent unauthorized data transfer via USB devices by blocking access to removable storage, optical drives, Bluetooth devices, WiFi adapters, and more. It offers granular control through whitelisting, blacklisting, and policy-based rules, with real-time monitoring, alerts, and detailed logging for compliance. Integrated into the CurrentWare suite, it supports centralized management for multiple endpoints in enterprise environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive blocking of over 20 USB device types including storage, Bluetooth, and wireless adapters
- Centralized web-based console for easy policy deployment across endpoints
- Detailed activity logs and real-time alerts for security incidents
Cons
- Primarily Windows-focused with limited cross-platform support
- Per-device licensing can become costly for large deployments
- Lacks advanced features like encryption enforcement or mobile device management found in top competitors
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking straightforward USB port control without complex endpoint security suites.
Pricing
Starts at $29.95 per endpoint per year; volume discounts available for enterprises, with free trial.
GiliSoft USB Lock
otherAffordable utility that locks USB ports, drives, and folders to safeguard data on personal computers.
Granular USB device whitelisting to allow only approved hardware while blocking others
GiliSoft USB Lock is a Windows-based security application that primarily locks down USB ports and removable media to prevent unauthorized data transfer and access. It offers features like password-protecting folders, blocking CD/DVD writing, restricting specific USB devices via whitelisting, and additional tools for internet filtering and application blocking. This makes it a versatile tool for basic data leakage prevention and parental controls on personal computers.
Pros
- Straightforward USB port and device locking
- Password protection for folders and drives
- Lifetime license at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility
- Limited advanced logging or reporting
- Occasional interface glitches in older versions
Best For
Home users or small businesses needing simple USB security without complex enterprise setups.
Pricing
Lifetime license $39.95 per PC; free trial available.
Conclusion
When selecting USB security software, the top contenders deliver robust protection for endpoints and data, with three rising above the rest. Endpoint Protector leads as the winner, offering comprehensive device control, encryption, and content-aware data loss prevention. DeviceLock follows with granular control over USB ports and peripherals, while Symantec Data Loss Prevention stands out as a strong enterprise-focused option with advanced monitoring and policy enforcement. Ultimately, the best choice depends on specific needs, but these three tools—particularly Endpoint Protector—set the standard.
Evaluate your security priorities and try Endpoint Protector to unlock its integrated, all-encompassing protection for yourself.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
