Many users have questions about the license duration and purchase models when paying attention to Gilisoft USB Lock. Here, we will explain in detail based on the official website information, and also take you to a deeper understanding of this practical security tool to see what it can bring to data security protection.

License Duration and Purchase Models: Choose as Needed, Flexible Adaptation

According to the official website, Gilisoft USB Lock offers two clear licensing plans for single devices to meet the needs of different users:

• 1 Year/1 PC Version: It is an annual subscription model with a clear validity period. The original price is $49.95, and the current special price is $39.95. It can be used on 1 computer for 1 year and enjoy free update services within 1 year. Suitable for users who need short-term use or want to experience the functions first.
• Lifetime/1 PC Version: It is a one-time purchase model with no validity period restrictions. The original price is $59.95, and the special price is $49.95. It supports lifetime use on 1 computer and enjoys free updates for life. Suitable for users who need long-term data protection and pursue a once-and-for-all solution.

In addition, the official website also provides the Lifetime/3 PC version (special price $99.95), as well as suites containing multiple encryption tools (such as #1 Encryption Toolkit Suite 2025, special price $79.99) and all-in-one tool suites, to meet the needs of users with multiple devices or multi-functional requirements.

Detailed Introduction to Gilisoft USB Lock: Professional Protection, Meticulous

As a security tool focusing on USB device access control, Gilisoft USB Lock has become the first choice for many users to protect data security with its rich functions and rigorous design. Its core functions are mainly reflected in the following aspects:

Precise Device Control Capability

It can perform refined management of various USB devices, including common USB interface devices such as USB flash drives, mobile hard drives, smartphones, and cameras. Users can set “allow” or “forbid” rules according to their needs. For example, only specific brands or models of USB devices are allowed to access the computer, blocking unauthorized device access from the source and avoiding security risks brought by unfamiliar devices.

Flexible Permission Grading Settings

The software supports detailed division of read and write permissions for USB devices. You can set some devices to only read data but not write, preventing important files from being maliciously tampered with or copied; you can also completely prohibit read and write operations of some devices to ensure that sensitive data will not be leaked through the USB interface. This kind of graded permission management makes data protection more targeted, which can not only meet normal work needs but also build a solid security defense line.

Comprehensive Security Protection Mechanism

In addition to basic device control, Gilisoft USB Lock also has a number of additional security functions. It can record all access logs of USB devices, including device name, access time, operation behavior and other information, which is convenient for users to trace the use of devices. Once an abnormality occurs, it can be quickly checked. At the same time, the software uses encryption technology to protect its own settings, preventing unauthorized users from modifying protection rules without permission, and ensuring the stability of the protection system.

Simple and Easy-to-Use Operation Interface

Despite its powerful functions, the operation of the software is not complicated. The intuitive interface design allows users to get started quickly. Whether it is setting device access rules, viewing log records, or adjusting permission parameters, it can be completed with simple clicks. Even users who are not very familiar with computer operations can easily master the core functions to achieve efficient data protection.

Why Choose Gilisoft USB Lock?

In addition to flexible licensing plans and powerful functions, the core value of Gilisoft USB Lock is also reflected in the following points:

• Convenient Licensing Service: The key will be automatically sent within a few minutes after purchase, no need to wait; free technical support and 24-hour email help are provided to solve various problems in use.
• Continuous Function Upgrades: Whether it is an annual subscription or a lifetime license, you can enjoy free updates to ensure that the software functions are always adapted to the latest system environment and security needs.

Whether it is personal users protecting private data or enterprises preventing internal information leakage, Gilisoft USB Lock can provide a reliable solution. Choose the appropriate licensing plan according to your usage scenario to make data security protection more efficient and worry-free.

In the context of the increasing popularity of mobile office, the USB tethering function of mobile phones brings great convenience to us. However, at the same time, it also brings many potential risks to the data security of computers. It is crucial to understand these risks and take effective measures to disable this function to ensure data security.​

I. Functions of USB Tethering​

Simply put, USB tethering is a function that shares the mobile phone’s network connection with other devices such as computers through a USB data cable. When we are in an environment without Wi-Fi or wired network, we only need a USB cable to connect the mobile phone and the computer, and turn on the USB tethering function of the mobile phone. Then the computer can access the Internet through the mobile phone’s mobile data (4G, 5G) or the connected Wi-Fi network. Compared with Wi-Fi hotspot sharing, this method has a more stable connection, less interference, and a relatively higher data transmission rate. Moreover, while sharing the network, data can be transmitted between the mobile phone and the computer through the data cable, which can be said to kill two birds with one stone. For example, when it is necessary to handle urgent work tasks outdoors and there is no available network around, USB tethering can come in handy, allowing the computer to quickly connect to the network and carry out work.​

II. Risks to Computer Data Security​

(I) Network Boundary Breakthrough​

For confidential computers or computers in internal private networks, they should maintain strict physical isolation from the Internet. However, once connected via mobile phone USB tethering, it is like opening a gap in the originally closed network boundary, allowing the computer to directly access the public network. This undoubtedly provides an opportunity for external malicious attackers, who can easily bypass the originally complex network protection system, directly enter the internal network, and steal or tamper with data in the computer.​

(2) Malware Propagation​

As a device connected to the public network, mobile phones are faced with many threats from malware in daily use. When a mobile phone is connected to a computer via USB and shares the network, the hidden malware on the mobile phone is very likely to infect the computer through this opportunity. Once these malware run on the computer, they may perform various dangerous operations, such as stealing users’ login accounts, passwords and other sensitive information, transmitting important files in the computer to external servers, and even controlling the computer’s hardware devices, causing serious damage to the computer system. Moreover, since computers are often in an office network environment, malware may further spread to the entire office network using the computer as a springboard, leading to larger – scale data security accidents.​

(3) Risk of Data Leakage​

Malicious users can use the connection of mobile phone USB tethering to actively transmit confidential files, trade secrets and other important data in the computer to the outside through the mobile phone network without the computer user’s knowledge. In addition, some malware may automatically scan files in the computer in the background, screen out sensitive data and quietly send them out through the mobile phone network. Because data transmission is carried out through the mobile phone as an intermediate device, it becomes more difficult to track the source of data leakage, which greatly increases the risk and loss of data leakage.​

III. Methods and Disadvantages of Disabling USB Tethering​

(I) BIOS/UEFI Settings​

When the computer starts, press a specific key (the key may vary for different brand computers, commonly F2, F10, Delete, etc.) to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings interface. In the BIOS/UEFI menu, find the settings related to USB, which are usually located under the “Advanced” or “Security” menu. Here, set “USB Controller”, “USB Support” or similar options to “Disabled”. Save the settings and exit BIOS/UEFI. After the computer restarts, all USB ports will be disabled, including the ports used to connect mobile phones to implement USB tethering.​

This method has significant disadvantages. It disables all USB ports, which means that common USB devices such as USB mice, keyboards, and U disks cannot be used normally, seriously affecting daily work and operations. Users need to prepare additional non – USB interface devices for replacement, bringing great inconvenience.​

(2) Device Manager Disabling​

Right – click the “Start” button and select “Device Manager”; or enter “Device Manager” in the search bar and open it. In Device Manager, find “USB Controllers” or “Universal Serial Bus Controllers”. After expanding this option, right – click the USB Root Hub you want to disable and select “Disable Device”. After performing this operation, all USB devices connected to this controller will be unavailable, including the mobile phone connection used for USB tethering.​

The disadvantage of this method is that it can only disable the controller corresponding to the currently connected USB device. If you replace the USB port to insert a new device or re – enable the disabled controller, the device can still be recognized and used. It cannot fundamentally and long – term prevent the activation of the USB tethering function, and the protection effect is limited and unstable.​

(3) Group Policy Settings​

For Windows systems, run “gpedit.msc” to open the Group Policy Editor. In the Group Policy Editor, expand “Computer Configuration” → “Administrative Templates” → “System” → “Device Installation” → “Device Installation Restrictions” in sequence. Find the option “Prevent installation of devices not described by other policy settings” or “Prevent installation of removable devices”, double – click to open it, select “Enabled”, and then click “OK”. In this way, you can prevent the computer from installing new USB devices, thereby preventing mobile phones from connecting to the computer through the USB tethering function.​

However, this method only takes effect on devices that comply with group policy rules. For some devices that have undergone special driver modifications or can bypass group policy detection, it may not be able to completely prevent their connection, resulting in certain security vulnerabilities. Moreover, the steps of group policy settings are relatively complex. For non – professional users, the operation is difficult, and it is easy to set errors, leading to abnormalities in other functions.​

IV. GiliSoft USB Lock Helps Solve the Problem​

From the disadvantages of the above three methods, it can be seen that when disabling USB tethering, they either affect the normal use of other devices, or have poor protection effects, or are complicated to operate. As a professional third – party software, GiliSoft USB Lock shows significant advantages of being convenient, simple and having no side effects in disabling USB tethering.​

(I) Powerful Data Protection​

GiliSoft USB Lock adopts advanced data leakage prevention technology, which can accurately lock the function of USB ports for network sharing, and at the same time, it does not affect the use of other normal USB devices such as mice, keyboards, and office U disks. It fundamentally eliminates the risk of data transmission through USB tethering and does not interfere with the daily operation of the computer. At the same time, the software can also set the DVD/CD burner to read – only to prevent data theft by burning optical discs.​

(2I) Flexible Device Management​

Users can easily create a trusted device whitelist through GiliSoft USB Lock. With just a few simple operations, necessary USB devices can be added to the whitelist to enable them to connect to the computer normally, while other unauthorized devices, including mobile phones, will be automatically blocked from connecting. This flexible management method not only meets the user’s needs for using necessary devices but also maximizes data security. The operation is convenient, and even non – professional users can easily get started. For example, enterprises can add specific U disks needed for office work to the whitelist, while employees’ personal mobile phones and other devices cannot access the company’s computers, effectively preventing internal data leakage.​

(3) Comprehensive Activity Monitoring​

The software provides complete reporting and logging functions, which can record the activities of USB devices in detail, including file operations on all USB disks connected to the computer, such as creating and deleting files. At the same time, it can also record the history of denied and allowed access as well as the active whitelist and other information. Through these records, users can clearly understand the usage of USB devices, and take timely measures to deal with any abnormalities, making the protection more proactive and accurate.​

(4) Strong Self – Protection​

GiliSoft USB Lock has a strong self – protection mode. Without the correct password, no one can uninstall the software. Users can also set it to stealth mode to further improve the security of the software. When someone enters the wrong password more than 5 times, the software will send an alarm notification to the user’s predefined email and temporarily prohibit unknown logins, effectively preventing others from maliciously cracking the software settings and ensuring that the software can always play a stable protective role.​

To sum up, with its convenient operation, accurate protection and no side effects, GiliSoft USB Lock provides users with an efficient solution for disabling USB tethering and managing USB devices, helping users easily cope with data security challenges and ensuring comprehensive protection of computer data.

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In enterprise IT management, efficiently deploying USB device management software across dozens or even hundreds of standalone Windows PCs that are not joined to a domain has always been a challenging issue for administrators. Manually configuring each device is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but also prone to strategy inconsistencies due to operational differences, posing potential risks of data leakage. To address this pain point, leveraging the command-line functionality of the designated version of USBTool.exe, a supporting tool for Gilisoft USB Lock, we can establish a standardized and automated batch deployment process, enabling efficient synchronization of core configurations such as passwords and whitelists.

I. Deployment Pain Points and Tool Value

Deploying USB management software in a standalone PC environment faces three major challenges: first, cumbersome configuration, as each device requires manual setup of passwords, whitelists, and other rules; second, difficulty in ensuring consistency, as manual operations are prone to parameter deviations; third, high post-maintenance costs, as strategy updates require repeated operations on each device.

The emergence of USBTool.exe provides key support for solving these problems. This tool realizes core functions such as password export/import, whitelist migration, and log management through command-line parameters, transforming “single-device configuration” into “template reuse” and increasing batch deployment efficiency by over 80%. Its command design is in line with administrators’ operational habits, allowing quick mastery without complex programming skills.

II. Analysis of Core Functions of USBTool.exe

The four major command modules of this tool form the technical foundation for batch deployment, with the functions of each module as follows:

1. Password Management Module

• /GetPW “path”: Exports the password file from the configured template machine, generating an encrypted password template to avoid the risk of plaintext transmission.
• /SetPW “path”: Imports the password file into the target machine, ensuring all devices use a unified management password and eliminating password confusion.

2. Whitelist Management Module

• /ExportWhiteList “path”: Exports the configured USB device whitelist (in .wlf format) from the template machine, including key information such as allowed device IDs and types.
• /ImportWhiteList “path”: Imports the whitelist file into the target machine, achieving standardized configuration of device access rules.

3. Log Management Module

• /ExportLog “path”: Exports the operation logs of the target machine for verifying the effectiveness of strategies after deployment.
• /DeleteLog: Clears the initial logs of the target machine to avoid redundant information interfering with later audits.

III. Standardized Deployment Implementation Steps

Phase 1: Creating the Base Configuration Template

1. Template Machine Initialization

Complete the basic configuration of Gilisoft USB Lock on one PC: set the management password, add allowed USB devices (such as specific USB drives and mobile hard disks), and configure device access permissions (read-write/read-only), etc.

2. Export Template Files

Run commands to export password and whitelist templates to the shared server:

# Export password templateC:\USBTool\USBTool.exe /GetPW "\\Server\Share\Template\Base_PW.txt"# Export whitelist templateC:\USBTool\USBTool.exe /ExportWhiteList "\\Server\Share\Template\Base_WL.wlf"

Phase 2: Batch Deployment to Target Machines

Automate the import operation through a PowerShell script, with the following steps:

1. Script Writing

Create a deployment script (Deploy.ps1) containing path definitions, password import, whitelist import, and log cleaning:

# Define template file path$sharePath = "\\Server\Share\Template\"$pwFile = $sharePath + "Base_PW.txt"$wlFile = $sharePath + "Base_WL.wlf"$toolPath = "C:\USBTool\USBTool.exe"# Import password& $toolPath /SetPW $pwFile# Import whitelist& $toolPath /ImportWhiteList $wlFile# Clean initial logs& $toolPath /DeleteLog

1. Batch Execution

Push the script to all target machines using tools like PDQ Deploy and run it with administrator privileges. For small-scale deployments, the script can be manually copied to the target machines for execution.

Phase 3: Deployment Verification

1. Random Sampling Inspection

Select 3-5 target machines, manually log in to Gilisoft USB Lock to verify the correctness of the password, and insert USB devices inside and outside the whitelist to test whether the access rules are effective.

2. Log Auditing

Run the command on the target machine to export logs and check for abnormalities in the configuration process:

C:\USBTool\USBTool.exe /ExportLog "D:\Deploy_Check.log"

IV. Key Considerations

1. Version Consistency

All target machines must use the same version of USBTool.exe as the template machine to avoid deployment failures due to differences in command parameters.

2. Permission Control

The template files on the shared server must be set with strict permissions, allowing only administrators to access to prevent password file leakage.

3. Path Unification

It is recommended to install USBTool.exe in the C:\USBTool\ directory on all devices to avoid script path adaptation issues.

4. Error Handling

Determine the execution result through the command return code ($LASTEXITCODE), where 0 indicates success, and non-zero values require referring to the tool documentation to troubleshoot the cause.

V. Summary of Solution Advantages

The batch deployment solution based on USBTool.exe has achieved three major breakthroughs: first, efficiency improvement, reducing the deployment time of 100 devices from 3 days to 2 hours; second, strategy unification, eliminating manual configuration errors through template reuse; third, easy maintenance, as strategy updates only require modifying the template and re-running the import script.

For enterprise IT teams, this is not just a technical solution but also a practical implementation of standardized management concepts — replacing repetitive work with tool-based thinking and ensuring system security through process-oriented operations, ultimately achieving the goal of “zero errors, high efficiency, and easy maintenance” in USB device management.

Introduction

“I just found out that someone is using the USB ‘s in the back of the computer to take information off our computer. Is there a way to lock out those as well ?” One user asked me.
In today’s world, securing your computer from unauthorized data access is more important than ever. Many users overlook the rear USB ports, leaving them vulnerable to data theft. These hidden ports are often exploited by those with malicious intent to copy files from your system. If you’re concerned about protecting sensitive data from being transferred through these ports, you need a reliable solution.

Scenario
Imagine discovering that someone has been accessing your computer through the USB ports at the back, copying sensitive files without your knowledge. These ports are often not monitored and are the perfect target for anyone attempting to steal data. Without proper protection, valuable information like confidential reports, personal data, and intellectual property could easily be taken.

Why Rear USB Ports Need Protection

• Hidden Vulnerability: Rear USB ports are typically out of sight, making them an easy target for unauthorized access.
• Data Theft Risk: Sensitive documents, financial records, and other important files can be transferred without your knowledge.
• Prevention of Unauthorized Data Access: You need a solution that will block data theft attempts through both front and rear USB ports.

Solution: How to Lock Rear USB Ports with Gilisoft USB Lock
Gilisoft USB Lock is a comprehensive tool that lets you easily disable both front and rear USB ports to prevent unauthorized access. This software is particularly useful in environments where securing sensitive information is crucial.

Steps to Secure USB Ports Using Gilisoft USB Lock

1. Download and Install Gilisoft USB Lock on your system.
2. Disable Specific USB Ports: Go to the settings to block USB access to rear ports while leaving others accessible as needed.
3. Password Protect the Application: Add a password to prevent unauthorized changes to the settings.
4. Monitor USB Access: Restrict or monitor USB activity, ensuring no one can copy data from your system.

Bonus Solution: Gilisoft Copy Protection Toolkit Suite
For an added layer of security, you may want to consider the Gilisoft Copy Protection Toolkit Suite. This all-in-one solution provides advanced features to safeguard your data, including protecting files on USB drives from unauthorized copying. The suite also offers encryption and other protection mechanisms, making it a perfect complement to your overall USB security strategy.

By using Gilisoft USB Lock in combination with the USB Copy Protection Toolkit Suite, you can ensure that your sensitive data remains protected, preventing any unauthorized access via the rear USB ports or external drives.

In digital forensics, maintaining data integrity is crucial when acquiring and analyzing evidence. Essential requirements for forensically sound data handling include:

• Data Integrity: Original data must remain unchanged throughout the forensic process, ensuring it can serve as admissible legal evidence.
• Read-Only Mode: Forensic data acquisition must occur in a read-only mode to prevent any modifications to the original storage device.
• Repeatability and Accuracy: Data must remain consistent and unaltered across multiple readings, ensuring no data is lost or modified.
• Event Logging: All actions during data acquisition must be recorded to allow for full traceability and integrity verification.

The Technology Behind Gilisoft USB Lock’s Computer Forensic Mode

Gilisoft USB Lock offers a unique Computer Forensic Mode, designed specifically for digital forensics. This mode strictly operates in a read-only environment, blocking any write attempts to a USB device, thus preserving data in its original state. Key principles and benefits of this mode include:

• Low-Level Access Control: By enforcing controls within the OS kernel or through low-level drivers, Computer Forensic Mode ensures data remains read-only at the hardware level.
• Automatic Write Protection: The mode disables any automatic installations, log creation, or system behaviors that might alter the original data.
• Real-Time Verification: Users can monitor and validate data integrity in real time, confirming that the data remains unmodified throughout the forensic process.

Additional Core Features of Gilisoft USB Lock

Beyond Computer Forensic Mode, Gilisoft USB Lock offers a suite of data protection and security management tools, ideal for safeguarding sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access:

• USB Port Locking: Securely lock all USB ports on the computer to prevent unauthorized USB devices from accessing the system, thereby enhancing physical data security.
• Device Whitelisting: Users can configure a whitelist of authorized USB devices, allowing only specific devices access while blocking all others.
• Data Encryption and Decryption: Critical data can be encrypted to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring that only authorized users can decrypt and view sensitive information.
• Application Locking: Administrators can restrict access to specific applications, preventing unauthorized users from using software that might expose sensitive data.
• Password Protection and Remote Unlock: Gilisoft USB Lock supports password protection and remote unlocking, providing multiple layers of security for devices and data.

Why Gilisoft USB Lock is the Perfect Solution for Data Protection and Forensic Needs

With its versatile feature set, including Computer Forensic Mode, Gilisoft USB Lock is an ideal choice for enterprises and individuals alike. It offers a full spectrum of data protection and forensic tools tailored to meet the needs of high-security environments. By preventing data breaches and unauthorized access, Gilisoft USB Lock serves as a comprehensive solution for securing sensitive information and supporting forensic investigations.