Sophos XG Reviews

Name: Sophos XG
Brand: Sophos
Rating: 4 (194 reviews)

4.1 out of 5

194 reviews
92% willing to recommend

2,786 followers

What is Sophos XG?

Sophos XG Firewall is a complete firewall solution that provides all the real-time security and insights you need to protect your network from ransomware and advanced threats. Sophos XG Firewall provides visibility into suspicious users, unknown and unwanted apps, encrypted traffic, and other threats. With its advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, Sophos XG Firewall immediately identifies potential risks and intrusions on web servers and networks.

Get the Sophos XG Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about Sophos XG, Fortinet FortiGate, Netgate pfSense and more!

Sophos XG is the #6 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give Sophos XG an average rating of 8.2 out of 10. Sophos XG is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: Sophos XG vs Fortinet FortiGate. Sophos XG is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 41% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 18% of all views.

Helped 801,394 peers since 2012

Featured reviews

Akshay Y P

Technical Support Engineer at Digitaltrack

The product’s new variant allows for faster processing of data packets from LAN to WAN, surpassing the capabilities of an 8G firewall. It provides threat prevention features, including WAF, IPS, and AV. We have configured SSL VPN capabilities for different branches, which have been working efficiently. For our minimalistic usage, it has been performing well in transferring data from on-premise devices. It helps us generate detailed reports on the dashboard. The product’s integration with Sophos Central enhances security architecture by enabling centralized management under a single dashboard. We recommend Sophos XG as a priority as it is much more reliable and has efficient technical assistance. It is much easier for configuration, web filtering, or web extension than one of its competitors. I rate it a seven out of ten.

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Manuel Gellida

Owner at Dinamica en Microsistemas de Informatica, S.A. de C.V.

The integration could be a bit better. They need to allow their solution to integrate with other products and not just other Sophos solutions. Sophos has a feature that in my opinion is very limited. They don't have enough VPNs on their models. They have the XG 750, which is a sizeable appliance. On those models, they used to have not enough VPNs. They always were short on that area. Pricing used to be very bad, however, they've adjusted their strategy recently. The product needs to improve its marketing in Mexico. It's not a well-recognized product in our country. The solution's technical support is very bad. There is an overall lack of documentation in relation to features and capabilities. We need these to help explain aspects of the solution to our clients.

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Steve Lowrey

Owner / IT operator at Fairview Schools

I am an integrator of this solution, and I have installed it in small- and medium-sized businesses and schools My company now spends less time tracking issues because of the security provided by Sophos XG in conjunction with Sophos Endpoint protection. The security of the solution, thanks to the…

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Sophos XG mindshare

As of September 2024, the mindshare of Sophos XG in the Firewalls category stands at 10.3%, up from 8.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Firewalls

Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

The most valuable features of Sophos XG include:

The firewall functionality
Unified threat management
SD-WAN
Consolidated functionality
Wi-Fi access and proprietary VPN technology (RID)
Extensive proxy capabilities
The comprehensive database of malicious websites
Security with unified threat management
User-friendliness, high security, integration with other solutions
Reporting
The simplicity of configuration and implementation
Disk encryption
Load-balancing capabilities
The automatic switch between ISPs and cloud subnets
VPN functionality
Content blocking
Centralized threat protection
The configuration of ports
Easy routing of multiple ISPs
Connectivity
Performance
Threat management
The simplicity of GUI
Manageability
Reporting and dashboards

"The product's initial setup phase was straightforward."
"We currently have multiple clients, and many users are working remotely. We need antivirus protection to guard against malware introduced from public networks. One of the most beneficial features of Sophos XG is its integration with Sophos Central. If any file is detected as malicious on any endpoint or firewall, Sophos Central immediately identifies the threat and publishes the information across all endpoints and firewalls. If a single system gets infected, the threat is communicated and addressed across the entire network, including all sites and remote users."
"The tool's most valuable feature is threat protection and DLP features. So far, basic DLP features like content protection and blocking. Furthermore, for remote users, features such as back filtering and application control are available, allowing for command and control from our side. It is very easy to understand policy applications."

Room for Improvement

Improvements needed on Sophos XG include:

1. Simplifying the configuration process for VPNs and providing clearer instructions.

2. Enhancing the feature for aggregating bandwidth to improve load balancing capabilities.

3. The user interface and making it more user-friendly.

4. Incorporating WAN optimization techniques into SD-WAN for better performance.

5. Enhancing connectivity with Microsoft 365 or Azure Active Directory.

6. Providing better technical support and instructions for troubleshooting.

7. Increasing throughput performance and reducing costs for annual renewals.

8. Adding web caching for improved bandwidth utilization.

9. Supporting Virtual Domains for traffic separation in large enterprises.

10. Remote access and VPN capabilities.

11. Adding better instructions and resources for setting up and configuring the firewall.

12. The stability and scalability of the solution.

13. Enhancing data loss prevention (DLP) and GDPR features for better data protection.

14. Strengthening the security of Sophos XG and addressing potential vulnerabilities.

15. The reporting capabilities and responsiveness of technical support.

16. Providing more control over LAN inbound and outbound traffic.

17. Aggressively improving the SD-WAN feature for better network security.

18. Simplifying the policy creation process for easier configuration.

19. User management and content filtering capabilities.

20. Enhancing integration with other solutions and providing more features for email management.

21. Offering better educational resources and training for easier setup and configuration.

22. Speed and performance.

23. Reducing response time and improving support availability.

24. Enhancing scalability and avoiding the need for multiple appliances for expansion.

25. Adding features like NAC and improving WAF and SD-WAN capabilities.

26. Logging and real-time analysis for better visibility.

27. Enhancing bandwidth management and enabling better VPN capabilities.

28. Providing a feature to assess the quality of international links for improved network performance.

29. Effectiveness of bandwidth usage and DDoS detection.

30. Resolving issues with high availability and improving access points and on-premise versions.

31. Reporting and security features related to GDPR compliance.

32. Enhancing email security and data protection features.

33. Offering better support for Dynamic IP and improving overall solution security.

34. Simplifying the management of the interface and implementing high-availability clusters.

35. Adding the ability to disconnect users and improving the rules for VPN configuration.

36. Enhancing features, pricing, and performance in comparison to competitors.

37. Streamlining the installation process and improving overall performance and speed.

38. Better support response time and addressing bugs and user interface issues faster.

39. Offering more features and options for bandwidth consumption monitoring.

40. Pricing transparency, and the availability of educational resources for smaller networks.

41. Speed and scalability of the solution.

42. Providing better support for urgent issues and improving overall scalability.

43. Reporting capabilities and control over LAN traffic.

44. Enhancing SD-WAN functionality and simplifying firewall rule configuration.

45. The user interface and reducing load times.

46. Enhancing scalability and ease of firmware upgrades.

47. Improving bandwidth management and simplifying VPN configuration.

48. Enhancing features, pricing, and installation speed.

49. Content filtering capabilities.

"The support service offered by Sophos is an area of concern where certain improvements are required."
"One drawback I've noticed with Sophos XG is that sometimes, the platform can become unresponsive. I've observed that it occasionally hangs, causing traffic to get stuck. During these times, users cannot access the internet or any services routed through the Sophos Firewall. This issue happens randomly and isn't something we've encountered with other firewalls like FortiGate, which we used in the past."
"One feature I would like to add is remote wipeout capability. This would be useful in cases where a user leaves the organization and fails to return their laptop. Remote wipeout would allow for the deletion of data from the device with a single command. Regarding technical support from Sophos XG, it's generally satisfactory. However, the response time could be improved. It takes around one hour to receive assistance, but reducing this to 30-45 minutes would benefit us."

ROI

Sophos XG has brought about improvements in security technology and internal practices for many users. Some mentioned that they predicted a three-year timeframe to achieve ROI. Others emphasized that the ROI of Sophos XG is high, especially when considering the value of the information being secured.

The solution has also saved time, enhanced workflow, and improved internet connectivity without any downtime.

Pricing

The pricing for Sophos XG varies depending on the size and needs of the network. It is generally considered reasonable and fairly priced.

The licensing cost is typically paid annually, with options for one-year or three-year subscriptions. The licensing fees are based on the number of users or the size of the client's network.

"The tool's pricing and licensing are very complex. As a developing company, we need approvals from management to make a purchase, which can take time. We asked Sophos XG to renew our current firewall license for one or two months while we plan to accommodate our increasing IT assets."
"The tool's pricing is cheaper compared to other alternative products."
"Sophos XG can be considered as an averagely-priced tool in the market."

Popular Use Cases

Sophos XG is primarily used as a firewall for network security and traffic regulation. It is also utilized for camera surveillance integration, managing network services, and providing VPN access.

The solution caters to small and medium businesses, offering comprehensive network security features such as firewall, IPS, web proxy, mail gateway, web application firewall, sandbox, and DLP module.

It is deployed both on-premise and on the cloud, serving various industries including digital design agencies, medical institutions, corporate banks, and government organizations.

Sophos XG ensures perimeter security, filters and protects internet access, and monitors user activities. It is considered a reliable and all-in-one solution for network protection.

Service and Support

Some customers find Sophos' technical support to be good and appreciate the prompt and efficient response to their cases and the strong on-site support. However, some customers feel that the support could improve, mentioning issues such as long resolution times, unacceptable response times, and delays in receiving automated emails.

Deployment

The initial setup requires some experience in designing networks and the expertise of a network professional. The implementation will be challenging for inexperienced users and manageable with the right knowledge and experience. The activation process can be cumbersome.

Installation time varies depending on factors such as customer size and overall environment.

Scalability

Sophos XG is a mixed bag in terms of scalability according to the reviews. Some users find it to be highly scalable and praise its ability to handle features like Active-Active configuration and active password utilization.

However, other users mention limitations in scalability, particularly in terms of fixed throughput and the need to purchase additional hardware for on-premises deployments.

Sizing and planning are important to ensure proper scalability, and choosing the right appliance for the expected number of users is crucial.

Stability

Sophos XG is highly praised for its stability and consistently described as stable, reliable, and not prone to crashes or freezes.

Some users mention occasional issues with weaker models or specific configurations, however, the solution is considered very stable. Many users have not encountered significant problems with stability and have been using Sophos XG without issues for several years.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our Sophos XG Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

18%

Comms Service Provider

Manufacturing Company

Government

Retailer

Educational Organization

Financial Services Firm

Construction Company

Healthcare Company

Media Company

University

Real Estate/Law Firm

Insurance Company

Energy/Utilities Company

Non Profit

Hospitality Company

Legal Firm

Wholesaler/Distributor

Outsourcing Company

Performing Arts

Transportation Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Logistics Company

Consumer Goods Company

Compare Sophos XG with alternative products

Learn more about Sophos XG

Sophos XG Firewall Features

Sophos XG Firewall offers a wide range of security features, including:

Application control: Prevent widespread infections with XG’s Security Heartbeat. XG Firewall automatically identifies the source of an infection on a network and automatically prevents it from accessing other network resources.
Synchronized user ID: Eliminate the need for client or server authentication agents by sharing user identification between the endpoint and the firewall through Security Heartbeat.
Centralized management: Easily manage all activities with Sophos Central. The XG cloud management platform allows users to easily set up, manage, and monitor XG firewalls along with other Sophos products. Some of Sophos Central’s features include alerting, backup management, one-click firmware updates, and rapid deployments of new firewalls.
Lateral movement protection: Automatically isolate compromised systems at every point in the network to stop attacks dead in their tracks.
Network protection: Protect networks from attacks and threats while providing secure network access.
Web protection: Gain clear visibility and control over all users’ web and application activity.
Web server protection: Solidify web servers and applications against hacking attacks while providing secure web access.
Email protection: Consolidate email protection with anti-spam, DLP, and encryption. XG’s Live Anti-Spam provides protection from the most recent spam campaigns, phishing attacks, and malicious attachments. Data Loss Prevention automatically triggers encryption on sensitive data in outgoing emails.

Reviews from Real Users

Sophos XG Firewall stands out among its competitors, among other reasons, for its intrusion detection capabilities, its user-friendly management platform, and in general, for being a complete and robust firewall solution.

Niranjan P., a network & system support engineer, writes, “Sophos is a comprehensive solution which allows me to configure all the attendant products, such as Sophos's firewall, endpoint, and encryption features. A nice feature of Sophos is that it offers in sync and heartbeat security. When my clients have a perimeter involving Sophos firewall and endpoints with Sophos Endpoint, they can communicate with each other.”

Antonio D., sales manager at INFOSEC, notes, “The product has a console that is based in the cloud for all their products. In this console, they have email security, firewall security, endpoint security, et cetera. All of the products on offer in the console are very useful for us. The solution is stable. The solution works well for enterprises and large-scale organizations.”

Antony M., ICT/HMIS supervisor at a healthcare company, writes, “The VPN feature is the most valuable. It has come in handy during this period when people are working from home. The filtering feature is also valuable because you can easily filter the sites that you don't want to visit. You can also set timely surfing quotas”