Sophos XGS Reviews

Name: Sophos XGS
Brand: Sophos
Rating: 4.0 (81 reviews)

4.0 out of 5

81 reviews
94% willing to recommend

What is Sophos XGS?

Sophos XGS is a comprehensive network security solution designed to protect organizations from advanced threats. It combines next-generation firewall capabilities with advanced threat protection, web filtering, and application control.

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Sophos XGS is the #15 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give Sophos XGS an average rating of 8.0 out of 10. Based on the analysis of the 81 most recent Sophos XGS reviews, the overall sentiment is positive, with a sentiment score of 7.0. Sophos XGS is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: Sophos XGS vs Fortinet FortiGate. Sophos XGS is popular among the small business segment, accounting for 42% 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 824,106 peers since 2012

Featured reviews

MarounAbboud

Data Department Manager at BTC Networks

Having previously worked with the Astaro Security Gateway platform (now called Sophos UTM), I can attest that the configuration and dashboard for this older platform was easier to manage than that of both Sophos XG and XGS. If it were up to me, I would prefer to go back to the older SG dashboard. I am hoping that in future, the dashboard for Sophos XGS will be simpler and easier.

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AbhijitMukherji

IT Head at Dee Development

The interface is really showing up on the edge now. It needs to be more modern and faster, with more rules visible on a single screen for better details rather than just six rules. The threat detection system could be more GUI-based or provide templates for common threats. We also need more updated version 20 study materials.

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SelormAhiataku

System&Network Administrator at All Limited Solutions

The primary use case is for cybersecurity strategies. Sophos XGS is used for its strong features like IPS (Intrusion Prevention System) and application control Threat intelligence of Sophos benefits by providing site intelligence and integration of AI helps with security. Sophos offers strong…

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Sophos XGS mindshare

As of December 2024, the mindshare of Sophos XGS in the Firewalls category stands at 1.7%, up from 0.8% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Firewalls

PeerAnalyst reports

Type	Title	Date
Category	Firewalls	Dec 24, 2024	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Dec 24, 2024	Download
Comparison	Sophos XGS vs Netgate pfSense	Dec 24, 2024	Download
Comparison	Sophos XGS vs Fortinet FortiGate	Dec 24, 2024	Download
Comparison	Sophos XGS vs OPNsense	Dec 24, 2024	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Fortinet FortiGate	4.2	20.5%	90%	317 interviews Add to research
Netgate pfSense	4.3	18.6%	94%	206 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Sophos XGS offers valuable features such as easy management, fast processing, reliable threat detection and VPN. Its synchronized security and user-friendly interface enhance usability. It provides comprehensive security with application and web filtering, content and network protection, centralized management, and integration with Sophos Central. The platform supports encrypted VPN, scalability, reporting tools, and a straightforward setup. Sophos XGS is cost-effective with robust security options like SD-WAN, bandwidth control, intrusion prevention, threat intelligence, and identity management.

"It provides good protection services."
"Sophos has a centralized management system where I can manage and control all the Sophos firewalls at the same time."
"Some features are free."

Room for Improvement

Sophos XGS needs better integration with Azure AD and Active Directory and improved SD-WAN functionality. Enhancements for reporting, customer support, scalability, and firmware stability are required. The user interface complexity should be reduced, and automatic operations should be more accessible. Licensing costs need to decrease, and higher capacity requirements should be addressed to support larger organizations. Improvements are needed for VPN setup, threat detection, hardware stability, and marketing strategy. Increased support for diverse languages and better telemetry data are also necessary.

"Sophos should work on its marketing strategy as it seems to lag behind Fortinet."
"There is no option for right-clicking on any feature after logging into the firewall. I am unable to open a feature in a new tab. In FortiGate, I can do it; in Sophos, I cannot."
"There is no option for right-clicking on any feature after logging into the firewall."

ROI

For smaller businesses, Sophos XGS offers a good return, as it functions effectively over time. Users report a significant return from its ability to prevent ransomware, highlighting a security breach that was successfully avoided. The performance meets security needs well, contributing positively to satisfaction. However, determining an exact monetary return is challenging, yet the investment is deemed satisfactory by many, with some rating it three out of five, indicating a varied experience across different contexts.

Pricing

Sophos XGS pricing varies widely depending on the region, model, and licensing options. Costs are perceived as competitive, particularly for small to medium-sized enterprises, but opinions on affordability differ. Licensing can be relatively straightforward, with options like three-year agreements offering better value over annual renewals. Some users find it expensive, especially compared to local markets or specific competitors like Fortinet, while others appreciate the cost-to-functionality ratio and available discounts.

"We paid around 17,000 pounds for a three-year package."
"Sophos XGS is a very expensive solution."
"Sophos XGS is a cost-effective solution."

Popular Use Cases

Sophos XGS is primarily used as a next-generation firewall for network protection, enabling unified threat management, web and content filtering, and VPN connectivity. Users deploy it on-premises or in the cloud for endpoint security, internet gateway functions, and application control. It is utilized by diverse entities like schools and enterprises for traffic filtering, access control, and remote connectivity, ensuring advanced threat protection and simplified management across multiple locations.

Service and Support

Sophos XGS support is noted for its mixed feedback. Many find it responsive and knowledgeable, praising its quick assistance. Others mention slow response times and a need for language diversity, especially in regions like Norway and Bangladesh. Some report challenges with first-line support, requiring escalation for complex issues. Users appreciate quick resolutions when support is available but acknowledge improvements are necessary to enhance response times, especially during critical situations.

Deployment

Sophos XGS initial setup is generally straightforward and user-friendly, particularly for those familiar with firewall setups. Some find it quick and easy, taking just minutes or a few hours, while others encounter complexities with more advanced configurations or large deployments. Expertise in network environments can simplify the process. Tools like configuration templates and wizard guides aid deployment. Complexity varies based on requirements, with installation time ranging from minutes to several days depending on use cases and deployment scale.

Scalability

Sophos XGS is recognized for its good scalability, with options for virtual and physical appliances catering to various organizational needs. Many find it suitable for medium to large enterprises, with scalability dependent on the chosen model. While some report limitations with hardware upgrades, others appreciate its ability to accommodate many users. Scalability ratings vary, with several users giving high marks and others seeking improvements, especially compared to competitors.

Stability

Sophos XGS is highly stable, frequently praised for reliability, good performance, and minimal issues. Users have noted occasional bugs, typically resolved quickly. Some highlight stability concerns if capacity is exceeded or power issues arise. Many rate stability highly, often at eight or nine out of ten, while a few mention areas needing improvement compared to competitors. Stability has improved significantly over previous versions like XG or V8, earning positive feedback.

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

Download our Sophos XGS 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%

Manufacturing Company

Comms Service Provider

Educational Organization

Financial Services Firm

Government

Healthcare Company

Construction Company

Retailer

Insurance Company

Legal Firm

Real Estate/Law Firm

Energy/Utilities Company

Media Company

Hospitality Company

Non Profit

Outsourcing Company

University

Transportation Company

Wholesaler/Distributor

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Consumer Goods Company

Performing Arts

International Affairs Institute

Logistics Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Security Firm

Engineering Company

Compare Sophos XGS with alternative products

Learn more about Sophos XGS

XGS has powerful deep learning technology and can detect and block even the most sophisticated malware and ransomware attacks. It also offers granular control over web access, allowing organizations to enforce policies and prevent access to malicious or inappropriate websites. Additionally, XGS provides application control features, enabling organizations to manage and prioritize network traffic based on specific applications or user groups.

With its intuitive management interface and centralized reporting, XGS offers easy deployment and monitoring of network security.