BIOS Version/Date: Gateway V2.05, 9/1/2009
On an OEM PC, they sometimes lock or limit access to the BIOS. If you can get into the BIOS configuration setting, there may be the option to disable individual USB ports. Most will include this option. I don't know how to get into the BIOS on the Gateway machines. Different OEMs use different keys. A search through your machine documentation should reveal the procedure. On a power up (from off, not just sleep or hibernate) you would press a key like F2 or DEL when you see the OEM start screen (Before Windows starts).
Once the BIOS screen comes up, you would navigate to Configuration > On-Board Devices > USB or similar and the USB ports will be enumerated. By selecting each port and choosing Disable, the port will be turned off electronically.