USB port blockers

USB port blockers are small plastic locks that fill a USB port so nobody can plug in a flash drive, phone or other device without permission. They suit offices, schools, libraries and shared or public computers where data theft and malware from unknown drives are a concern. No models are listed in this category at the moment, so no brands are named here.

How to choose a USB port blocker

Lock type. Most port blockers are released with a dedicated key, which stops casual tampering and lets an administrator remove them when needed. Keyless clip-in types are cheaper, but anyone with a small tool may be able to pull them out, so they work better as a deterrent than as real protection.

Port type. Check whether you need blockers for USB-A, USB-C or both. Most blockers on the market are designed for the rectangular USB-A port, and a blocker made for one connector will not fit the other. Count the ports on each machine before you order.

Quantity and keys. Blockers are normally sold in packs, and the pack often includes one or two keys. For a fleet of desktops or a classroom, choose a pack that covers every port you want to secure, plus a few spares. A single key that opens every blocker in the pack makes administration much simpler.

Fit and tamper resistance. A good blocker sits snugly in the port and cannot be prised out by hand. Look at how tightly the housing grips the port and whether the plastic is thick enough to resist twisting. On laptops and small PCs where ports sit close together, check that the blocker does not cover the neighbouring socket.

Where it fits in your security plan. A physical blocker only controls the port it sits in. It works best alongside software policies, such as disabling removable storage in the operating system, rather than replacing them.

Brands in this category

No brands are listed in this category at the moment, so there is nothing to compare yet. When you look at any manufacturer's blockers, check these points:

• Key system: whether one master key opens the whole pack or each blocker has its own key.
• Port compatibility: whether the product is made for USB-A, USB-C or both.
• Pack size: whether spare blockers and extra keys are included.

USB port blocker FAQ

What is a USB port blocker?

A USB port blocker is a small lock that sits inside a USB port and physically prevents a cable or storage device from being connected. Most are released with a key. They are used to reduce the risk of data theft and of malware arriving on unknown drives.

Do USB port blockers work on USB-C ports?

Only if the blocker is made for USB-C. Most blockers are designed for USB-A, and the two connectors are different shapes, so a USB-A blocker will not fit a USB-C socket. Check the port type on each device before you buy.

Can a USB port blocker be removed without the key?

Keyed blockers are designed to resist removal, but no plastic lock is completely tamper-proof. A determined person with tools may be able to damage or break one. For sensitive systems, combine blockers with software controls that disable removable storage.

How many USB port blockers do I need?

You need one blocker for every port you want to secure. Count the free USB ports on each computer, multiply by the number of machines, and add a few spares. Packs usually come with a set number of blockers and one or more keys, so match the pack size to your total.