Device Control

What is device control?

Device control is the ability to monitor, allow, or block peripheral devices and ports on endpoints. It ensures that only approved devices can connect to corporate systems and that their use complies with security policies. This helps organizations prevent data exfiltration, control malware spread, and maintain visibility into file transfers.

Why is device control important?

Uncontrolled device use exposes organizations to data breaches and malware. Device control is important because it prevents unauthorized data transfers via USBs and removable media, blocks malware infections introduced through untrusted devices, reduces insider threat risks by enforcing policies on device usage, provides audit trails for compliance with HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR, and SOX, and strengthens Data Loss Prevention strategies.

What are the key features of device control?

• Granular policies: Define which devices and file types are allowed or blocked.
• Read-only enforcement: Permit data access without enabling data export.
• Encryption: Require automatic encryption for data copied to approved devices.
• Monitoring and logging: Record device connections and file transfers for auditing.
• Offline enforcement: Apply policies even when endpoints are disconnected from the network.
• Integration with DLP: Combine with data classification and monitoring to protect sensitive files.

How does device control work?

• An external device is connected to an endpoint.
• Device control policies check whether it is authorized.
• If approved, access may be granted with restrictions (e.g., read-only or encrypted).
• If blocked, the device cannot access or transfer files.
• All activity is logged for auditing and compliance.

Use Cases

• Healthcare: Prevents unauthorized transfers of patient data to removable devices, ensuring HIPAA compliance.
• Financial Services: Blocks unapproved USBs to stop fraud and enforces encryption for portable data storage.
• Government & Legal: Ensures sensitive case data is not exfiltrated via removable media, supporting accountability and compliance.
• Cloud & Remote Work: Controls device use on remote endpoints, reducing the risk of data leaks outside the office.

How Netwrix can help

Netwrix enhances device control through its Endpoint Management and Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) solutions. With Netwrix, organizations can:

• Enforce automatic encryption on USB drives and removable media.
• Define granular device usage policies across hybrid environments.
• Monitor and log device activity for compliance reporting.
• Prevent unauthorized file transfers and insider misuse.

This ensures consistent enforcement of security policies and reduces the risk of data loss.

Suggested Resources

• Netwrix Endpoint Management
• Why Monitoring of Network Devices Is Critical for Network Security
• Remote Access Security Best Practices