USBGuard
USBGuard is an open-source software framework that helps block potentially malicious devices from connecting via USB ports. It allows users to define rules and policies to restrict USB access.
usb
security
access-control
USBGuard: Open-Source USB Device Security Framework
An open-source software framework to block malicious devices from connecting via USB ports, with customizable rules and policies for restricted USB access.
What is USBGuard?
USBGuard is an open source software framework designed to help block potentially malicious USB devices from connecting to a computer. It works by allowing users to define rules and policies that restrict access permissions for USB devices.
Some key features of USBGuard include:
- Granular control over USB connections - Users can create allow/block rules based on device attributes like vendor ID, product ID, serial number, etc.
- Policy based restrictions - Policies can be defined per user, group or for the whole system. This allows flexibility in determining access.
- Runs at the kernel level - Since USBGuard operates at kernel level, the policies are enforced before a USB device driver is loaded. This prevents compromised drivers from bypassing security policies.
- Port based limitations - Separate policies can be defined for different controller ports, allowing users to have fine grained control.
USBGuard aims to solve the problem of restricting potentially malicious USB devices. By defining proper access control policies, users can block unauthorized or unrecognized USB devices from interacting with the system. This helps improve security against malicious USB attacks like BadUSB, USB drive firmware hacks, etc.
USBGuard Features
Features
- Device access control based on rules
- Whitelisting and blacklisting of USB devices
- Device authorization based on user prompts
- Integration with Linux userspace device manager
- Rulesets can be customized per user/group
- Open-source software written in C++
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Effective at blocking malware spread via USB
Lightweight and fast
Easy to configure rules and policies
Integrates well into Linux environments
Open source allows community contributions
Cons
Currently only available on Linux
Requires some command line configuration
Not as user friendly as commercial alternatives
Limited device fingerprinting capabilities
May break devices that need continuous access
Official Links
The Best USBGuard Alternatives
Top Security & Privacy and Access Control and other similar apps like USBGuard
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USB Block
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USB Protector
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