Sophos SG 115 vs XGS 116 Why You Should Consider an Upgrade

Sophos SG 115 vs XGS 116: Why You Should Consider an Upgrade

September 4, 2025

Taking a look at Sophos SG 115 vs XGS 116 can help answer any questions about what makes them different. Both technologies are viable in their own right, but newer firewall models exist for a reason. In today’s market, the SG 115 is considered outdated hardware. This is compared to the likes of the XGS 116.

That doesn’t mean you won’t find the specs of the SG 115 suitable; it’s more about the undeniable advancements in the newer models. The jump from SG to XGS is considered a better option due to its advancements alone. In this article, you’ll get a look at the specs that matter most for the sake of your decision-making.

Comparing Sophos SG 115 vs XGS 116

When you break down the technical details, it becomes pretty evident that the XGS 116 is a better long-term solution. You have to start with the fact that the Sophos SG 115 has been discontinued. Highlighting its specs is still relevant, especially for newcomers trying to scope out the network firewall protection demands of their business. 

A standout difference between them is the Xstream architecture in the Sophos XGS firewall. This offers an advantage in managing modern encrypted traffic, deep packet inspection, and more. Considering the many technical aspects of next-generation firewalls, it’s best to highlight some of the most important specs first.

What is the Sophos SG 115?

A great solution for small businesses on a budget, the SG 115 is more than enough for many. This also applies to those with branch locations, as this model can supply a streamlined approach to flexible connections.

Some of the most notable specs from the SG 115 include:

  • Firewall Throughput: 2.5 Gbps 
  • VPN Throughput: 325 Mbps 
  • IPS Throughput: 350 Mbps 
  • Concurrent Connections: 1,000,000
  • New Connections per Second: 17,000
SG 115

If you know anything about these firewall specs, you can see how they’d be more than enough for small businesses. In the same vein, it’s also limiting when it comes to a long-term, scalable solution. At some point, your company would need to consider an upgrade to adjust to current growth needs.

What is the Sophos XGS 116?

Offering a range between small and medium-sized businesses, the Sophos XGS 116 is a much more scalable option. Starting with a user capacity of 26 to 50 devices and a sizable upgrade in throughput, the XGS 116 is more than enough for many growing companies.

Here’s what the specs for the Sophos XGS 116 look like on the surface:

  • Firewall Throughput: 7.7 Gbps 
  • VPN Throughput: 650 Mbps 
  • IPS Throughput: 2,000 Mbps
  • Concurrent Connections: 1,600,000 
  • New Connections per Second: 61,500

It’s also important to consider the different bundle options that come with next-generation firewalls. The variety in service bundles is part of what makes the XGS 116 such a great long-term solution for network security.

Although this firewall model from Sophos is extremely comprehensive, it doesn’t hurt to compare the old and the new side by side. The differences between firewall models may not seem like much unless you know what you’re looking for.

Sophos SG 115 vs XGS 116 Next Generation Firewalls

Considering that the SG 115 is discontinued, this alone would make the XGS 116 a first choice for many companies. On the other hand, those still working with the SG 115 could benefit from what an upgrade has to offer. Pitting some of the most important specs side by side, the table below highlights key details relevant to any business’s network security.

SpecificationSG 115XGS 116
Firewall Throughput2.5 Gbps7.7 Gbps
Threat Protection ThroughputN/A685 Mbps
Antivirus Throughput (proxy)120 MbpsN/A
Xstream SSL/TLS InspectionN/A650 Mbps
Max Concurrent Connections1 million1.6 million
Max New Sessions per Second17,00061,500
VPN throughput425 Mbps650 Mbps
Interface4 x GbE Copper
1 x GbE SFP
2 USB
1 Micro-USB
1 RJ45 COM
1 HDMI
8 x GbE Copper
1 x GbE SFP
1 x GbE PoE 803.2at (30W max.)
1 x COM RJ45
1 x Micro-USB
1 x USB 2.0
1 x USB 3.0

Both are clearly capable network security appliances. At the end of the day, it’s the Sophos XGS 116 that stands tall. It’s simply a more scalable solution for small businesses that have their eyes set on growth.

Final Thoughts

Sourcing a firewall integration that works right for your needs shouldn’t be a rushed process. It’s commonly a long-term investment that requires a little bit of hindsight. In this case, the specs make it pretty clear that the Sophos XGS 116 is the better option.

Working with us at Firewalls.com ensures you get the expertise you need to make the right decision for your network security. When it comes to Sophos SG 115 vs XGS 116, there’s nothing wrong with aiming higher in this situation.

Picture of Written by Lucas Modrall

Written by Lucas Modrall

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