AT&T Router and using USB Connections

Hi,

This question is regarding AT&T Router and the USB connections. I read through many forum posts/questions about the router's usb connections. Why or how do we get access to these usb ports? 

I read that those usb ports are disabled or meant to be for router purposes. If the usb ports are only used for the router, then why are there so many ports?  If we are paying to use/rent the router, I would like full use of that router. Just like many others, I would like to add my external hard drives to the network. As it is right now, nobody can place additional equipment to the our network through the router.

Please, unlock the several usb ports on our routers.