Sophos XGS 118w

Description

Sophos XGS 118w

The Sophos XGS 118w is a second-generation desktop firewall designed for SMB, branch office, and distributed network environments that require high-speed connectivity and integrated wireless security. It combines Sophos Firewall protection with nine 2.5GbE copper interfaces, one SFP interface, Wi-Fi 6, and an expansion slot for optional 5G connectivity.

Wired Connectivity

With 9× 2.5GbE copper ports, the XGS 118w provides substantial wired interface capacity for modern business networks. Its additional SFP interface provides an option for fiber connectivity, while SFP transceivers can be purchased separately where required.

Wireless Connectivity

The XGS 118w differs from the non-wireless XGS 118 by integrating Wi-Fi 6. It uses two external antennas and 2×2:2 MIMO with simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz operation. Sophos’ technical specifications list maximum wireless throughput of 575 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 1,200 Mbps on 5 GHz.

Security Performance

The appliance is rated for up to 15.5 Gbps firewall throughput, 3.5 Gbps IPS throughput, 3.25 Gbps threat protection throughput, 3.95 Gbps NGFW throughput, and 13 Gbps IPsec VPN throughput. These are manufacturer test figures and actual performance varies with traffic conditions and enabled services.

Expansion

The XGS 118w includes one expansion slot that supports the optional Gen.2 5G module. Sophos positions the module for redundant cellular connectivity and 5G fixed wireless access scenarios.

Rack Deployment

For organizations that prefer rack-based installation, Sophos provides a dedicated rackmount kit for the XGS 118(w)/128(w)/138 models. The kit supports installation with either the front or rear of the appliance facing forward, providing flexibility for rack layout and cable access.

Why Choose Sophos XGS 118w?

The XGS 118w combines firewall security, high-speed Ethernet, integrated Wi-Fi 6, optional 5G, fiber connectivity, and optional power redundancy in a compact desktop appliance. It is particularly suitable for organizations that want a security gateway capable of supporting both wired and wireless users without moving immediately to a larger rackmount firewall platform.

Selection Guide

For SMB Firewall Deployments

Choose the XGS 118w when the deployment requires a higher-performance desktop firewall with integrated Wi-Fi 6 and multiple 2.5GbE interfaces.

For Wired Networks

Use the nine 2.5GbE copper ports to connect switches, servers, access points, workstations, and other high-speed Ethernet devices.

For Fiber Connectivity

Use the integrated SFP interface with a compatible SFP transceiver where fiber connectivity is required.

For Wireless Deployments

Select the XGS 118w rather than the non-wireless XGS 118 when integrated Wi-Fi 6 is required.

For 5G Connectivity

If cellular backup or fixed wireless access is required, confirm that the optional Gen.2 5G module is appropriate for the intended deployment and region.

For Rack Installation

Use the dedicated Sophos rackmount kit designed for XGS 118(w)/128(w)/138 rather than a generic mounting solution.

Always Verify

Cross-check the current Sophos product documentation, supported transceivers, 5G availability, licensing requirements, and rackmount compatibility before purchasing.

Installation Notes

Place the XGS 118w in a suitable location with adequate airflow and connect the external power supply according to Sophos installation guidance.

For wireless operation, attach the two supplied external antennas and position them appropriately for the intended coverage area. The integrated wireless radios operate concurrently on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

For wired connectivity, connect the required network links to the 2.5GbE interfaces or use the SFP interface with a compatible transceiver.

If installing the optional Gen.2 5G module, follow the Sophos hardware installation instructions and use the correct module and antenna configuration.

For rack installation, use the dedicated XGS 118(w)/128(w)/138 rackmount kit. Sophos specifies the kit specifically for these models and provides mounting hardware and adapter components with the kit.

Best Practices

• Use compatible Sophos SFP transceivers for the SFP interface.
• Verify the exact hardware and software requirements before adding optional modules.
• Position the external Wi-Fi antennas appropriately for the intended coverage.
• Keep sufficient airflow around the appliance.
• Use the optional redundant power supply where higher availability is required.
• Document WAN, LAN, SFP, Wi-Fi, and 5G connectivity during deployment.
• Use the dedicated Sophos rackmount kit instead of improvised mounting solutions.
• Confirm 5G module availability and regional compatibility before procurement.
• Keep firmware updated according to Sophos recommendations.
• Size the appliance according to actual traffic, security services, and concurrent-user requirements.

Benefits for IT Teams

The Sophos XGS 118w gives IT teams a consolidated security platform with high-speed Ethernet, integrated Wi-Fi 6, optional 5G, and fiber connectivity.

Its nine 2.5GbE ports can simplify connectivity for modern branch networks, while the built-in Wi-Fi reduces the need for an additional wireless security gateway in suitable deployments.

Optional rack mounting, SFP connectivity, 5G expansion, and redundant power provide additional deployment flexibility.

The appliance also fits within the broader Sophos Firewall ecosystem, making it suitable for organizations standardizing their network security infrastructure around Sophos platforms.

Main Benefits

High-Speed Network Connectivity

The XGS 118w provides nine 2.5GbE copper interfaces plus an SFP interface.

Benefit: Connect modern high-speed wired infrastructure without being limited to standard Gigabit Ethernet.

Integrated Wi-Fi 6

Built-in Wi-Fi 6 provides concurrent 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless connectivity with 2×2:2 MIMO.

Benefit: Support wireless users and devices without requiring a separate firewall-side wireless appliance.

Flexible WAN Connectivity

The optional Gen.2 5G module adds cellular connectivity to the appliance.

Benefit: Use 5G as a backup WAN path or for fixed wireless access where appropriate.

Strong Security Performance

The platform supports firewall, IPS, threat protection, NGFW, IPsec VPN, and TLS inspection workloads.

Benefit: Protect branch and SMB networks while supporting demanding encrypted and security-inspected traffic.

Deployment Flexibility

The desktop appliance can remain on a suitable surface or be installed using the dedicated rackmount solution.

Benefit: Adapt the appliance to branch offices, server rooms, and professional rack environments.

Power Resilience

The XGS 118w supports an optional second power supply.

Benefit: Improve power resilience in environments where continuous firewall operation is important.

Typical Use Cases

1. SMB Network Security

Deploy the XGS 118w as the central firewall for small and medium-sized business networks requiring high-speed Ethernet and integrated wireless.

2. Branch Office Firewall

Use the appliance to secure distributed offices while providing wired, wireless, VPN, and internet security capabilities from one platform.

3. High-Speed LAN Connectivity

The nine 2.5GbE interfaces are suited to environments where workstations, switches, servers, and wireless infrastructure require more than conventional Gigabit Ethernet.

4. Integrated Wireless Security

Use the built-in Wi-Fi 6 capability for branch offices, small deployments, and environments that prefer an integrated wired and wireless security appliance.

5. 5G Backup Connectivity

Install the optional Gen.2 5G module to provide an additional connectivity path for redundancy or fixed wireless deployments.

6. Fiber-Connected Networks

Use the SFP interface where fiber connectivity is required for an upstream or network link.

7. VPN-Connected Branches

Use IPsec VPN capabilities to support secure connectivity between branch offices, remote networks, and other sites.

Who Should Buy Sophos XGS 118w?

The Sophos XGS 118w is suited to:

• Small and medium-sized businesses
• Branch offices
• Distributed organizations
• Retail locations
• Professional offices
• Education and similar multi-user environments
• Organizations requiring integrated Wi-Fi 6
• Businesses upgrading from Gigabit to 2.5GbE networking
• Deployments requiring optional 5G WAN connectivity
• IT teams standardizing on Sophos Firewall

It is particularly useful when a deployment needs more wired interface capacity and performance than entry-level desktop firewalls while still benefiting from a compact appliance form factor.

Related Categories

Explore related pages for:

• Sophos Firewalls
• Sophos XGS Series
• Sophos XGS 118
• Sophos XGS 128w
• Sophos SFP Transceivers
• Sophos 5G Modules
• Sophos Rackmount Kits
• Sophos Wi-Fi Solutions
• Sophos Firewall Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sophos XGS 118w?

The Sophos XGS 118w is a second-generation desktop firewall for SMB and branch office deployments. It combines next-generation firewall security with nine 2.5GbE copper ports, one SFP interface, integrated Wi-Fi 6, and an expansion slot for optional 5G connectivity.

What is the firewall throughput of the XGS 118w?

Sophos specifies up to 15.5 Gbps firewall throughput for the XGS 118w under its stated test methodology.

How many Ethernet ports does the Sophos XGS 118w have?

The XGS 118w has 9 × 2.5GbE copper ports and 1 × SFP fiber interface.

Does the Sophos XGS 118w have Wi-Fi?

Yes. The w-model includes integrated Wi-Fi 6, with 2×2:2 MIMO, two external antennas, and concurrent 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz operation.

What is the maximum Wi-Fi speed of the XGS 118w?

Sophos’ technical specifications list maximum throughput of 575 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 1,200 Mbps on 5 GHz. Actual wireless performance varies according to environmental and network conditions.

Does the XGS 118w support 5G?

Yes. The XGS 118w has one expansion slot that supports the optional Gen.2 5G module. Sophos describes the module as suitable for redundant cellular connectivity and 5G fixed wireless access.

Does the Sophos XGS 118w support redundant power?

Yes. An optional second power supply is available for the XGS 118w.

Can the XGS 118w be rack mounted?

Yes. Sophos provides a dedicated rackmount kit compatible with XGS 118(w), XGS 128(w), and XGS 138 models.

Does the XGS 118w have an SFP port?

Yes. The appliance has 1 × SFP fiber interface. Compatible SFP transceivers are sold separately.

Is the XGS 118w suitable for a branch office?

Yes. Its combination of firewall security, 2.5GbE connectivity, integrated Wi-Fi 6, VPN capabilities, optional 5G, and compact desktop form factor makes it suitable for many SMB and branch office deployments.

What is the difference between XGS 118 and XGS 118w?

The primary distinction is wireless connectivity. The XGS 118w includes integrated Wi-Fi 6, while the standard XGS 118 does not have built-in Wi-Fi. Both models share the same listed core wired interfaces and performance specifications.

What should I check before purchasing the XGS 118w?

Verify the required Sophos Firewall licensing, SFP transceiver compatibility, 5G module availability, rackmount requirements, power redundancy needs, and expected network traffic before purchase.