How to Disable USB Ports

Two Methods:WindowsMac OS X

Disabling USB ports on your computer helps protect important data from unauthorized access in the form of viruses, malware, hackers, and malicious third parties. USB ports can be disabled by editing Windows Registry, or by deleting USB extensions in Mac OS X.

Method 1
Windows

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    Remove any USB mass storage devices connected to your computer. This does not include your keyboard or monitor.
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    Log into your computer as the administrator.
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    Press the Windows key + R. This opens the Run command line in all versions of Windows.
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    Type “regedit,” then press Enter. This opens Windows Registry.
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    Navigate to the following location in Windows Registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USBSTOR. This folder controls USB storage on your computer.
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    Open the registry key labeled “Start.”
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    Change the data value of the “Start” registry key from “3” to “4.” This disables your computer’s USB ports.
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    Close Windows Registry. Going forward, your computer will no longer detect USB storage.
    • Repeat steps #1 through #8 and change “4” to “3” to enable your computer’s USB ports.[1]

Method 2
Mac OS X

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    Log into your computer as the administrator.
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    Click on “Go” and select “Go To Folder.”
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    Type “/System/Library/Extensions” into the dialog box, then click “Go.” This opens the Extensions folder, where data for your USB ports are saved.
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    Locate files named “IOUSBMassStorageClass.kext” and “IOFireWireSerialBusProtocolTransport.kext.” These files control USB mass storage only, and do not affect the USB ports for your keyboard or monitor.
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    Move both files to the Trash.
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    Right-click on Trash and select “Empty Trash.”
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    Restart your computer. Your system’s USB ports will now be disabled.[2]

Warnings

  • Changing values improperly in Windows Registry can result in errors or prevent your computer from booting up and running efficiently. Pay close attention when making changes to Windows Registry to avoid rendering your computer inoperable.
  • Disabling the USB ports in Mac OS X permanently renders these ports inoperable unless you reinstall OS X or restore your computer to its original factory settings. Follow these steps to reinstall Mac OS X and restore disabled USB ports.[3]

Sources and Citations

  1. ↑ http://www.pcworld.com/article/2940859/windows/how-to-lock-and-unlock-your-usb-ports.html
  2. ↑ http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/data-center/disable-usb-storage-under-os-x-or-windows/
  3. ↑ https://discussions.apple.com/thread/5062704?tstart=0

Article Info

Categories: Basic Computer Skills