Sophos XGS 87w

Description

Sophos XGS 87w

The Sophos XGS 87w is a compact next-generation firewall designed for small businesses, branch offices, retail environments, and other deployments requiring network security with integrated wireless connectivity. As part of the first-generation XGS desktop family, it combines Sophos Firewall capabilities with built-in Wi-Fi 5 in a single appliance.

The appliance provides four Gigabit Ethernet copper ports and one Gigabit SFP interface, allowing it to support common wired networking requirements while providing an option for compatible fiber connectivity.

Wireless Connectivity

The XGS 87w includes integrated Wi-Fi 5 using IEEE 802.11ac technology. Its wireless design provides 2×2:2 MIMO, two external antennas, and a single radio supporting either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band.

This makes the wireless model suitable for smaller environments where combining network security and wireless connectivity in one appliance is useful.

Network Security

The XGS 87w supports a range of Sophos Firewall security capabilities, including firewall protection, intrusion prevention, application security functions, VPN connectivity, and TLS inspection.

Sophos lists firewall throughput of up to 3,850 Mbps, IPS throughput of up to 1,200 Mbps, IPsec VPN throughput of up to 3,000 Mbps, and TLS inspection throughput of up to 375 Mbps for the XGS 87/87w platform under its published testing methodology.

Connectivity and Installation

The appliance includes four fixed Gigabit Ethernet copper interfaces and one Gigabit SFP interface. SFP transceivers are sold separately. It also provides RJ45 and Micro-USB management interfaces along with front USB 2.0 and rear USB 3.0 ports.

For organizations using rack-based infrastructure, an optional rackmount kit is available for the XGS 87w.

Why Choose Sophos XGS 87w?

The XGS 87w brings firewall security, VPN connectivity, wired networking, and integrated Wi-Fi together in a compact appliance. It can be considered for smaller deployments that need a combination of security and wireless connectivity without moving to a larger firewall platform.

Selection Guide

For Small Offices

Consider the XGS 87w when the deployment requires firewall protection, Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, and integrated Wi-Fi in one appliance.

For Wireless Requirements

Choose the XGS 87w when built-in Wi-Fi 5 is required. The wireless platform provides 2×2:2 MIMO with two external antennas and supports either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz through its single radio.

For Fiber Connectivity

Use the built-in Gigabit SFP interface when compatible fiber connectivity is required. Select the appropriate SFP transceiver separately according to the network’s media and distance requirements.

For Rack Installation

Select the optional rackmount kit when the XGS 87w needs to be installed in a standard rack environment.

Always Verify

Check the current Sophos product documentation, compatibility information, licensing requirements, and availability before purchasing. Sophos currently identifies the first-generation XGS desktop models as available while stock lasts.

Installation Notes

Place the XGS 87w in a suitable location with adequate ventilation and connect the required Ethernet, SFP, management, power, and wireless antenna components.

The external antennas should be securely connected to the dedicated wireless antenna connectors on the XGS 87w. The appliance uses an external AC-DC power supply rated at 12 VDC, 5 A, 60 W.

When using the SFP interface, install a compatible SFP transceiver and use the appropriate network cabling or fiber patch connection. Sophos lists SFP transceivers as separately sold components.

For rack deployment, install the appropriate XGS 87w rackmount kit according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Best Practices

• Place the XGS 87w in a ventilated location.

• Position the two external Wi-Fi antennas appropriately for the intended coverage area.

• Use compatible SFP transceivers for fiber connectivity.

• Keep firewall firmware and security subscriptions appropriately maintained.

• Document WAN, LAN, SFP, and wireless configurations.

• Use the optional rackmount kit rather than improvised mounting methods for rack installations.

• Verify current Sophos compatibility and lifecycle information before expanding an existing deployment.

• Plan wireless coverage separately if the required coverage exceeds what a single integrated wireless appliance can provide.

Benefits for IT Teams

The Sophos XGS 87w gives IT teams a compact platform for combining network security and wireless connectivity. Its fixed Gigabit Ethernet ports, SFP interface, management ports, and integrated Wi-Fi provide several connectivity options within a desktop appliance.

The optional rackmount capability can also help standardize physical installations where desktop appliances need to be integrated into rack infrastructure.

For organizations already using Sophos Firewall, the XGS 87w can fit into an existing Sophos security environment while providing a dedicated appliance for smaller sites and branch deployments.

Main Benefits

Integrated Wireless Security

The XGS 87w combines firewall functionality with built-in Wi-Fi 5.

Benefit: Reduce the need for a separate wireless networking device in suitable smaller deployments.

Flexible Network Connectivity

Four Gigabit Ethernet ports and one Gigabit SFP interface support different network connection requirements.

Benefit: Connect wired devices while retaining an option for fiber-based connectivity.

Security and VPN Functions

The appliance supports firewall, IPS, NGFW, IPsec VPN, and TLS inspection capabilities.

Benefit: Address multiple network security requirements through one security platform.

Compact Deployment

The XGS 87w uses a compact desktop form factor measuring approximately 230 x 44 x 205.5 mm.

Benefit: Fit network security into smaller offices, retail locations, and branch environments.

Optional Rack Integration

A dedicated rackmount kit is available separately for the XGS 87w.

Benefit: Provide a more organized installation where rack-based deployment is preferred.

Expandable Fiber Connectivity

The built-in SFP interface can use compatible SFP transceivers, which are sold separately.

Benefit: Adapt the firewall to suitable fiber or copper SFP connectivity requirements.

Typical Use Cases

1. Small Business Network Security

Deploy the XGS 87w as a central firewall for small businesses requiring wired security and integrated wireless connectivity.

2. Branch Office Protection

Use the appliance in branch locations where a compact firewall with VPN capabilities and integrated Wi-Fi is required.

3. Retail Environments

The integrated Wi-Fi and compact form factor can suit retail locations that need network security without deploying a larger rack-based firewall.

4. Wireless-Enabled Office Networks

Use the XGS 87w where wired Ethernet connections and local Wi-Fi connectivity need to operate alongside firewall security.

5. Secure Remote Connectivity

Use IPsec VPN capabilities to support secure connectivity between suitable remote networks and locations.

6. Rack-Based SMB Deployments

Combine the XGS 87w with its optional rackmount kit when the appliance needs to be incorporated into a standard network rack.

Who Should Buy Sophos XGS 87w?

The Sophos XGS 87w can be considered by:

• Small and medium-sized businesses

• Branch offices

• Retail outlets

• Small professional offices

• Organizations requiring integrated Wi-Fi and firewall security

• Businesses needing Gigabit Ethernet and SFP connectivity

• IT teams standardizing Sophos Firewall deployments

• Organizations requiring a compact firewall for smaller network environments

The appliance is particularly relevant when integrated Wi-Fi is required alongside next-generation firewall capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sophos XGS 87w?

Sophos XGS 87w is a first-generation XGS Series desktop next-generation firewall with integrated Wi-Fi 5. It provides four Gigabit Ethernet copper ports, one Gigabit SFP interface, and built-in wireless connectivity.

Does Sophos XGS 87w have built-in Wi-Fi?

Yes. The XGS 87w includes Wi-Fi 5 based on IEEE 802.11ac with 2×2:2 MIMO, two external antennas, and a single radio supporting either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.

How many Ethernet ports does the XGS 87w have?

The XGS 87w has four fixed Gigabit Ethernet copper ports and one Gigabit SFP fiber interface.

Does Sophos XGS 87w support SFP?

Yes. The appliance includes one Gigabit SFP interface and supports compatible SFP transceivers. The transceivers are sold separately.

Can Sophos XGS 87w be rack mounted?

Yes. Sophos lists a rackmount kit as an optional accessory for the XGS 87w.

What is the firewall throughput of Sophos XGS 87w?

Sophos lists firewall throughput of up to 3,850 Mbps for the XGS 87/87w platform. Firewall IMIX throughput is listed at up to 3,000 Mbps.

What is the IPsec VPN throughput of XGS 87w?

Sophos lists IPsec VPN throughput of up to 3,000 Mbps for the XGS 87/87w platform.

Is Sophos XGS 87w suitable for small businesses?

The XGS 87w is designed as a desktop firewall for SMB and branch-office environments. Its integrated Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, SFP interface, and security capabilities make it suitable for deployments requiring a compact network security appliance.

Does XGS 87w have an expansion slot?

No. Sophos lists the XGS 87w with zero expansion slots. Optional connectivity is provided through compatible SFP transceivers.

Is Sophos XGS 87w still available?

Sophos currently lists the first-generation XGS desktop models, including the XGS 87w, as available as long as stock lasts. Availability should therefore be confirmed before purchase.