How do I configure Windows so that it won't recognize USB as Ethernet?

Question

In light of the increasing ability for people to steal credentials using a USB Ethernet adapter, I would like to make it so that Windows will not recognize USB devices as Ethernet adapters.

Is there a way that I can do this locally, and on a domain? We are using Windows 7 and up and Server 2012.

Answer 1

You could do that via Group Policy Management tool. Create a new Group Policy Object in Device Installation Restriction category, and list device classes you want to forbid. I believe network adapters are in USB communication device class, but I'm not sure.

Here's a detailed guide.