How to enable write protection for USB devices on Windows 10

USB drives are incredibly convenient—but that convenience can come with risks. If you’re managing shared or sensitive computers, write protection is one of the simplest ways to block unauthorized data transfer or stop malware from sneaking onto a flash drive.

Here’s how to enable write protection for USB devices in Windows 10. No third-party software needed—just a few system tweaks.

Method 1: Using Registry Editor (For Individual Machines)

Warning: Editing the registry can cause serious issues if done incorrectly. Follow these steps carefully.

1. Open the Registry Editor
   Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control.
2. Navigate to the USB Storage Policy Key
   Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\ If you don’t see a folder called StorageDevicePolicies, create it:
   • Right-click on Control > New > Key and name it StorageDevicePolicies.
3. Create the WriteProtect DWORD
   • Click on StorageDevicePolicies.
   • Right-click > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
   • Name it WriteProtect.
   • Double-click it and set the value to 1.
4. Restart Your Computer

To disable write protection later, reverse these steps—or follow this complete guide:
👉 How to Remove Write Protection on Windows 10

Method 2: Using Group Policy Editor (For Admins or Multiple Machines)

1. Open Group Policy Editor
   Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to Removable Storage Policies Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access
3. Enable Write Protection
   Double-click Removable Disks: Deny write access.
   • Select Enabled.
   • Click Apply, then OK.
4. Restart the PC

To undo, return here and set the policy to Disabled or Not Configured.

Final Thoughts

Write protection helps secure your systems by making USB devices read-only. It’s a small change with a big impact—especially in environments where security matters.

And if you ever need to remove write protection, here’s your step-by-step solution:
🔗 How to Remove Write Protection on Windows 10

Need help with something else? Drop a comment—I’ve got your back.