Sophos Wireless - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
Sophos Wireless - Product Overview
Sophos Wireless Overview
Primary Function
Sophos Wireless is a solution designed to manage and secure wireless networks efficiently. It is managed through the Sophos Central platform, which allows for the integration of wireless network management alongside other Sophos security solutions.
Target Audience
This product is aimed at organizations of various sizes, including small businesses, midsize enterprises, and large enterprises, particularly those in sectors such as education, government, and manufacturing. It is also suitable for multi-site environments.
Key Features
- Centralized Management: Sophos Wireless is managed from the Sophos Central platform, providing a single dashboard for an at-a-glance status of your wireless networks, access points, and connected clients.
- Simple Deployment and Administration: The solution includes an on-boarding wizard that guides users through the process of creating networks, registering access points, and adding sites. This makes it easy to use, even for those without extensive wireless network expertise.
- Increased Visibility and Control: Users can monitor bandwidth usage to optimize Wi-Fi performance and receive alerts for potential unwanted use of network resources. This feature helps in identifying and mitigating security risks.
- Secure Guest Access and Hotspot Setup: Sophos Wireless allows for controlled internet access for guests using daily passwords or time-based vouchers. It also supports enterprise-grade backend authentication for a seamless user experience.
- Multi-site Management and Cloud Scalability: The cloud-managed solution is highly scalable, making it easy to extend Wi-Fi coverage by adding additional access points. Basic site planning tools help in visualizing the network setup before detailed planning.
- Advanced Security Features: New features include synchronized security with endpoint and mobile devices, enhanced rogue AP detection, and various UI improvements such as new dashboard widgets and bulk provisioning.
- Configuration and Management: Wireless networks can be set up and configured via Sophos Central or the local user interface of the access points. Features like multiple SSIDs, time-based SSIDs, client load balancing, and band steering are also available.
By offering these features, Sophos Wireless provides a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for managing and securing wireless networks across various organizational settings.
Sophos Wireless - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Sophos Wireless is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible even for those who are not wireless networking experts.Central Management Interface
Sophos Wireless is primarily managed through the Sophos Central platform, which offers a single dashboard for an at-a-glance status of your wireless networks, access points, and connected clients. This dashboard provides all the key information in a concise manner on a single screen, allowing administrators to quickly identify potential issues and manage their networks efficiently.Key Features of the Interface
Field Validation
When creating a new SSID, the interface includes validation checks to ensure all required fields are filled correctly, reducing the likelihood of errors during the SSID policy creation process.Connected Device Graph
The connected devices graph has been updated to a simple line chart with a new legend, providing a clearer view of the wireless devices connected to the access points.Site Creation Workflow
Site creation is now a two-step process where administrators first set the location and then select the access point to place in that site location, making the process more streamlined.SSID Assignment
The ‘Assign SSID’ button now shows a popup window where administrators can select or deselect the SSIDs assigned to or removed from an access point, simplifying the management of SSIDs.Ease of Use
The interface is built to be simple and easy to use. The onboarding wizard provides step-by-step guidance for creating networks, registering access points, and adding sites, making the deployment and administration process straightforward even for non-experts.Local Management Option
For those who prefer on-premises management or do not have a Support and Services subscription, Sophos Wireless also offers a local user interface. This allows administrators to log into an individual access point (like the AP6) when on site to get system information or change settings.Overall User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the simplicity and clarity of the interface. Administrators can manage their wireless networks, including secure guest access and hotspot setup, with ease. The platform also provides increased visibility and control, allowing administrators to see which traffic is using the bandwidth and optimize the performance of the Wi-Fi network.Conclusion
In summary, Sophos Wireless offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, with clear and concise information displayed on a single dashboard, making it an efficient and effective tool for managing wireless networks. Sophos Wireless - Key Features and Functionality
Sophos Wireless Overview
Sophos Wireless, integrated into the Sophos networking and security suite, offers several key features and functionalities that enhance the management, security, and performance of wireless networks. Here are the main features and how they work:
Wireless Network Management
Sophos Wireless allows you to configure and manage access points, wireless networks, and clients from a single interface. This includes setting up and managing mesh networks and hotspots, which ensures comprehensive coverage and reliable connectivity.
Security Standards
The system supports the latest security and encryption standards, such as WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2), which is an AES-based security standard. This ensures that your wireless networks are protected with advanced encryption.
Separate Zone Wireless Networks
You can create separate zone wireless networks, which keeps the subnet of the wireless network completely separate from your LAN network. This feature is particularly useful for guest networks or any networks where you don’t want wireless devices to communicate with other LAN networks, providing enhanced security and flexibility.
Synchronized Security
Sophos Wireless v2.3 introduces Synchronized Security features, which allow for the separate activation of synchronized security for endpoints and mobile devices. This feature also enables the creation of Managed Device only SSIDs and customization of URL whitelists for red security heartbeat/walled garden status. These features are supported on the APX Series access points and are managed through Sophos Central.
Access Point Management
Sophos Firewall allows you to manage various types of access points, including indoor APX series access points, built-in Wi-Fi devices, and Wi-Fi RED appliances. You can accept, delete, or restart access points as needed, and the access points receive their configuration from the firewall through AES-encrypted communication.
AI Integration
While the core features of Sophos Wireless are not directly driven by AI, the overall security ecosystem of Sophos benefits from AI technologies. For instance, Sophos XDR, which can be integrated with Sophos Wireless, uses AI to enhance security operations. AI features such as threat intelligence from SophosLabs Intelix, AI-generated threat scores, and AI Case Summaries help in identifying and neutralizing threats more efficiently. However, these AI features are more broadly part of the Sophos security suite rather than specific to the wireless product itself.
User Identity and Authentication
Sophos Wireless v2.3 also displays user identity in the device list for certain authentication types, enhancing the ability to manage and monitor network access.
Conclusion
In summary, Sophos Wireless provides a comprehensive solution for managing and securing wireless networks, with strong encryption standards, separate network zoning, and integrated access point management. While AI is not a direct component of the wireless product, it plays a significant role in the broader Sophos security ecosystem, particularly in threat detection and response.
Sophos Wireless - Performance and Accuracy
Performance and Accuracy of Sophos Wireless
When evaluating the performance and accuracy of Sophos Wireless, several key aspects come into play:Frequency and Channel Management
Sophos Wireless access points, such as the APX series, offer flexible frequency management. The 2.4GHz frequency band provides better penetration through objects and longer range, but it is more crowded. In contrast, the 5GHz band offers higher speeds, especially with 80 or 160MHz channels, but requires careful channel selection to avoid interference.Automatic Channel Selection
Sophos APs can be configured with automatic channel selection, which detects and switches to the channel with the least traffic. This feature is convenient for simple setups but may not be ideal for high-density environments where static channel assignment is recommended to avoid constant channel switching.Band Steering
To optimize performance, Sophos Wireless supports band steering, directing 5GHz clients to use the 5GHz band and 2.4GHz clients to use the 2.4GHz band. This helps prevent slower devices from slowing down faster ones.MIMO Technology
Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology is supported by Sophos Wireless, allowing devices to use multiple antennas to increase data transmission. For example, a laptop with three antennas can achieve higher throughput compared to a smartphone with only one or two antennas.Coverage and Client Management
Sophos APs are tested to handle up to 60 devices simultaneously with minimal degradation, but it is generally recommended to limit simultaneous clients on each access point to around 30. This ensures better traffic distribution, especially in high-density areas.Performance Metrics
In practice, users have reported stable but sometimes slower-than-expected throughput. For instance, an APX320 might show reliable but slow speeds around 270Mbps, which can be improved by changing the 5GHz channel from 40MHz to 80MHz, increasing throughput to around 600Mbps.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Bandwidth Throttling
One limitation is the inability to set bandwidth limitations directly on specific SSIDs within the Wireless section of Sophos Central. Users may need to set up VLANs on the XG firewall to achieve this, which can add complexity to the setup.MU-MIMO
There have been reports that enabling or disabling Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO) on APX320 access points does not significantly impact throughput, which could indicate an area for improvement or further optimization.Management Interface
While Sophos Central provides a centralized management system, some users find the interface could be improved. For example, managing wireless settings through both Sophos Central and the XG firewall can be confusing, and there is a need for clearer indicators of which settings are managed by Sophos Central.Security and Threat Detection
Sophos Wireless excels in automated threat discovery, instantly spotting rogue access points, spoofing attempts, and unknown devices. This feature enhances the security of the Wi-Fi network and helps maintain a secure environment.Conclusion
In summary, Sophos Wireless offers strong performance and accuracy, particularly in terms of frequency management, MIMO technology, and automated threat detection. However, there are areas for improvement, such as bandwidth throttling capabilities and the optimization of MU-MIMO features. The management interface could also be streamlined to reduce confusion and enhance user experience. Sophos Wireless - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure and Plans for Sophos Wireless
Hardware and Initial Costs
- The Sophos Wireless solution involves purchasing hardware, specifically the AP6 Series access points. The cost includes the access point itself, local web management, and a Limited Lifetime Warranty. You can select the most suitable AP6 Series model based on your requirements.
Support and Services Subscriptions
- To fully utilize the features of Sophos Wireless, you need to add a support and services subscription for each access point. This subscription includes advanced RMA support, Sophos Central management with access to additional features, firmware updates, and 24/7 multi-channel support.
Subscription Models
- Sophos Wireless support is available through two main subscription models:
- Termed Subscription: This is a traditional subscription model where you pay for a set period, typically annually.
- MSP Flex Monthly Billing: This model allows for monthly billing, which can be more flexible for managed service providers (MSPs) and organizations with varying needs.
Pricing Adjustments
- As of April 8, 2024, Sophos is introducing a new pricing structure for the AP6 Series access points, which includes a price reduction for all AP6 Series models and for Support & Services per access point per year. This change aims to make the AP6 Series more competitive and attractive for existing AP and APX Series customers.
Free Trial
- Sophos offers a free trial for their Wireless solution. To start the trial, you need a supported Sophos access point. If you have an active Sophos Central account, you can log in, go to Free Trials, and select Sophos Wireless. This trial allows you to manage your access points, set up wireless networks, and get insights into potential threats on your Wi-Fi networks.
Bundles and Licenses
- While the wireless protection is often part of broader security bundles, such as the FullGuard or FullGuard Plus subscriptions, these bundles include a range of security features like Network Protection, Web Protection, Email Protection, and more. However, you can also purchase the Wireless Protection as an individual module if needed.
Summary
In summary, the pricing for Sophos Wireless involves the initial cost of the access points, along with a necessary support and services subscription. The subscription can be either a termed subscription or an MSP Flex monthly billing model. Additionally, there is a free trial option available for those who want to test the service before committing.
Sophos Wireless - Integration and Compatibility
When Integrating Sophos Wireless Access Points
When integrating Sophos Wireless access points with other networking tools and devices, several key points of compatibility and integration are worth noting:
Compatibility with Other Vendor Devices
Sophos Wireless access points can be used in conjunction with devices from other vendors. For example, if you are using Meraki MX equipment, these access points are interoperable. You would need to ensure that the Meraki MX device has PoE LAN ports if required by the access points, and set up the appropriate VLANs and trunking configurations.
Management Through Sophos Central
Sophos Wireless access points can be managed through Sophos Central, a cloud-managed platform. This allows for centralized management of all Sophos solutions, including wireless access points, firewalls, and switches. This single-pane-of-glass approach simplifies the management of your wireless network, enabling easy deployment, configuration, and monitoring.
Integration with Sophos Firewall
Sophos Wireless access points can also be managed directly through a Sophos Firewall. The firewall uses AES-encrypted communication to configure and manage the access points. This integration allows for features like automatic isolation of compromised devices, rogue AP detection, and seamless roaming, all managed from the firewall interface.
Network Security Features
The integration of Sophos Wireless with other Sophos products, such as firewalls and switches, enhances network security. For instance, the Active Threat Response feature, available via Sophos Central, isolates compromised devices across the network, preventing lateral movement and allowing time for remediation. This feature works across both wireless and wired networks.
Deployment and Setup
Deploying Sophos Wireless access points is straightforward. The process involves creating a wireless network, registering the access point, and connecting it—a simple three-step process that gets your Wi-Fi network up and running quickly.
Enterprise Authentication and Guest Access
Sophos Wireless supports various authentication methods, including RADIUS, RADIUS accounting, voucher authentication, social login, and customizable captive portals. These features ensure secure and seamless Wi-Fi access for employees, guests, and visitors, while maintaining a strong security posture.
Conclusion
In summary, Sophos Wireless access points are highly compatible with a range of devices and platforms, offering flexible management options through both Sophos Central and Sophos Firewall, and enhancing overall network security and user experience.
Sophos Wireless - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Options for Sophos Wireless
When you are using Sophos Wireless, you have access to a variety of customer support options and additional resources to help you manage and troubleshoot your wireless network effectively.Community Support
You can engage with the Sophos Community, where you can start discussions, ask questions, and share your expertise with other Sophos customers and staff. This community forum is a valuable resource for finding answers and getting feedback from peers and experts.Digital Chat Support
Sophos offers Digital Chat support, which provides instant solutions and personalized assistance. This service is available during specific hours depending on your time zone, ensuring you can get help quickly when you need it.Phone Support
For more immediate assistance, you can contact Sophos via phone. They have toll-free and toll numbers available for various regions around the world, making it easy to get in touch with a support representative.Support Portal and TechVids
The Sophos Support Portal is equipped with a search tool that helps you find relevant resources to resolve technical support issues efficiently. Additionally, you can watch Support TechVids, where Sophos experts walk you through common technical support issues in video format.Additional Resources
Documentation and Self-Service Content
You can access a wide range of documentation and self-service content through the Sophos Support website. This includes product updates, advisories, and technical guides.Professional Services
Sophos offers professional services that include support plans ranging from basic technical support to direct access to senior support engineers. These plans are designed to match your organizational needs and can include customized delivery and follow-the-sun support.Threat Submission
If you encounter a suspicious file or email, you can submit it to Sophos Research Labs for analysis.Product-Specific Support
For Sophos Wireless specifically, you can manage your wireless networks through Sophos Central, a cloud-managed solution that provides a single pane of glass for all your Sophos solutions. This includes features like synchronized connectivity, automated threat discovery, and modular management. You can also manage your wireless protection through your Sophos firewall if preferred. By leveraging these support options and resources, you can ensure that your Sophos Wireless setup is running smoothly and securely. Sophos Wireless - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Easy Deployment and Management
Sophos Wireless is known for its simple three-step setup process, making it quick to get your wireless networks up and running. It can be managed through Sophos Central, a cloud platform that provides a single pane of glass for all your Sophos solutions, simplifying your workload and enhancing visibility.
Synchronized Connectivity
The system automatically controls access for managed clients based on their health status, ensuring that only healthy devices can connect to the network.
Automated Threat Discovery
Sophos Wireless can instantly spot and classify threats such as rogue access points, spoofing attempts, or unknown devices on your network. This feature helps in maintaining the security of your Wi-Fi network.
Modular Management
With Sophos Central, you can manage your wireless networks alongside other Sophos solutions, such as firewalls, switches, and endpoint security, all from a single platform.
High Performance
Sophos Wireless supports Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, and includes 2.5G Ethernet connectivity on many of its access points, which helps avoid network bottlenecks and provides a better user experience.
Active Threat Response
This feature isolates compromised devices across the network, preventing lateral movement and giving you time for remediation. It integrates well with other Sophos products like firewalls and switches for enhanced automation.
Disadvantages
Cost and Subscription Requirements
Managing Sophos Wireless through Sophos Central requires a Support and Services subscription, which can add to the overall cost. While local management is available, central management is recommended, which may incur additional fees.
Limited Onboarding Support
Unlike some other solutions, Sophos does not offer extensive vendor onboarding services, which might be a drawback for some users who prefer more hands-on support during the initial setup.
Hardware Resource Limitations
While Sophos Wireless is scalable and cloud-managed, hardware resources can still limit on-premises, controller-based solutions. This might be a consideration if you are transitioning from an existing on-premises setup.
Overall, Sophos Wireless offers a user-friendly, secure, and high-performance solution for managing wireless networks, but it comes with some cost and support considerations that potential users should be aware of.
Sophos Wireless - Comparison with Competitors
Sophos Wireless Unique Features
- Integrated Management: Sophos Wireless is managed through Sophos Central, a single cloud platform that also oversees firewalls, switches, endpoint and server security, and email protection. This unified management simplifies the administration of various security and networking components.
- Automated Threat Discovery: Sophos Wireless automatically detects and classifies threats such as rogue access points, spoofing attempts, and unknown devices on the network. It also isolates compromised devices to prevent lateral movement and buys time for remediation.
- Active Threat Response: This feature, available via Sophos Central, allows for automatic isolation of compromised devices and enhances response actions when combined with a Sophos Firewall.
- Wi-Fi 6 and 6E Support: Sophos offers high-performance access points with Wi-Fi 6 and 6E capabilities, ensuring optimal performance and increased throughput speeds. The AP6 Series includes models for both indoor and outdoor use, with features like 2.5G Ethernet connectivity to avoid network bottlenecks.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Juniper Networks AI-Native Networking Platform
- Juniper’s platform uses a common AI engine and the Mist Marvis Virtual Network Assistant (VNA) to unify campus, branch, and data center networking operations. It promises significant reductions in networking trouble tickets, OpEx, and incident resolution time. Unlike Sophos, Juniper’s focus is more on the broader networking infrastructure rather than just wireless access points.
Nile AI Services Platform
- Nile offers an AI services platform that automates network design, configuration, and management. It includes AI-based network monitoring and operations through applications like Nile Copilot and Nile Autopilot. While Nile focuses on campus and branch IT infrastructures, Sophos Wireless is more specialized in wireless security and management.
LogicMonitor
- LogicMonitor uses AI for anomaly detection and predictive analytics to identify potential network issues before they occur. It also provides intelligent troubleshooting, which is similar to Sophos’s automated threat discovery but is more focused on general network monitoring rather than wireless security specifically.
Auvik
- Auvik integrates AI for network mapping, device discovery, and configuration backups. It also offers anomaly detection and predictive analytics for proactive maintenance. Auvik’s features are more geared towards general network management and monitoring, whereas Sophos Wireless is specifically tailored for wireless network security and management.
NinjaOne
- NinjaOne uses AI for automated anomaly detection, real-time monitoring, and proactive issue resolution. It automates tasks like network discovery, device monitoring, and patch management. While NinjaOne covers a broad range of network monitoring tasks, Sophos Wireless is more specialized in securing and managing wireless networks.
Conclusion
In summary, Sophos Wireless stands out with its integrated management through Sophos Central, automated threat discovery, and specialized focus on wireless network security. However, for organizations looking for more comprehensive network management solutions that go beyond wireless security, alternatives like Juniper Networks, Nile, LogicMonitor, Auvik, and NinjaOne may be more suitable.
Sophos Wireless - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Sophos Wireless
Q: How do I configure and manage Sophos Wireless access points and networks?
To configure and manage Sophos Wireless, you need to go to My Products > Wireless in the Sophos Central platform. Here, you can set up and manage access points, wireless networks, and connected devices. Ensure your access points are assigned IP addresses via DHCP and that your network meets the necessary requirements, such as having DHCP and DNS servers and allowing the required domains and ports.
Q: What network requirements must be met for Sophos Wireless to function properly?
For Sophos Wireless to work correctly, your network must have DHCP and DNS servers to provide IP addresses and answer DNS requests (IPv4 only). The access points must be able to communicate with Sophos Central without needing a VLAN configuration on the access point. Additionally, there should be no HTTPS proxy on the communication path. Ensure that the native or management VLAN is untagged in the wired switch.
Q: How do I add a wireless network on Sophos Firewall?
To add a wireless network on Sophos Firewall, go to Wireless > Wireless networks and click Add. Enter a name for the network, a hardware name for the interface, and the Service Set Identifier (SSID). Select a security mode (WPA2 is recommended) and enter a passphrase. Configure the client traffic settings and save your changes. If using enterprise authentication, you must also configure a RADIUS server.
Q: What are the VLAN requirements for Sophos Wireless access points?
You need to add the proper VLANs in the trunk port of the wired switch. The access point always communicates over an untagged VLAN, so ensure the native or management VLAN is untagged in the wired switch.
Q: How do I ensure my Sophos Wireless access points receive firmware updates?
Do not disconnect your access point from the power outlet when the lights blink rapidly, as this indicates a firmware update is in progress. Ensure your network allows the necessary domains and ports for firmware updates to complete successfully.
Q: Can I use static IP addresses for Sophos Wireless access points?
No, you cannot use static IP addresses for Sophos Wireless access points. You must assign IP addresses to the access points using DHCP, either through your network’s DHCP server or by setting up a DHCP server on your Sophos Firewall.
Q: What security features does Sophos Firewall offer for wireless networks?
Sophos Firewall provides several security features for wireless networks, including wireless protection, rogue access point scanning, and support for WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) with AES encryption. You can also configure separate zone wireless networks to keep guest networks segregated from your LAN network.
Q: How do I power my Sophos AP6 Series access points?
The Sophos AP6 Series access points are typically powered using a compatible PoE (Power over Ethernet) injector or switch. Check the technical specifications to determine if you need 802.3at (PoE ) or 802.3bt (PoE ) for your specific model. An external power supply is also available for the AP6 420.
Q: What are the steps to add an access point on Sophos Firewall?
To add an access point on Sophos Firewall, go to Wireless > Access points. You will see a list of active, inactive, and pending access points. Click the check mark to authorize your access point, and it will be listed under Active/inactive access points as Active.
Q: Are there any specific domains or ports that need to be allowed for Sophos Wireless?
Yes, you need to allow specific domains and ports for Sophos Wireless to function. This includes allowing connections to Sophos Central, remote login and logging, firmware upgrades, and NTP for time synchronization. For example, you need to allow openwrt.pool.ntp.org for NTP and 52.5.76.173 with TCP port 8347 for Synchronized Security.
Sophos Wireless - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Sophos Wireless
Sophos Wireless is a comprehensive and cloud-managed Wi-Fi solution that integrates seamlessly with other Sophos security products, making it an excellent choice for organizations seeking to streamline their network management and enhance security.
Key Features
- Centralized Management: Sophos Wireless can be managed through Sophos Central, a single cloud platform that allows administrators to monitor, configure, and update access points from anywhere. This central management enhances visibility into the network’s performance and security, simplifying troubleshooting and implementation of changes.
- Scalability: The solution is highly scalable, allowing easy extension of the network by simply adding more access points without the limitations of on-premises, controller-based solutions.
- Security: Sophos Wireless includes advanced security features such as rogue AP detection, spoofing attempt identification, and automated threat discovery. It also supports guest network isolation, ensuring that guest devices are kept separate from the internal network.
- High-Performance Connectivity: The access points support the latest Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which provides faster speeds, increased capacity, and improved performance in crowded environments.
- AI and Machine Learning: Sophos is integrating AI and machine learning technologies to enhance threat detection and response, allowing the system to identify unusual network behavior and adapt to new threats automatically.
Who Would Benefit Most
Sophos Wireless is particularly beneficial for:
- Medium to Large Enterprises: Organizations with multiple locations or a large number of users will appreciate the scalability and centralized management capabilities.
- Managed Service Providers: MSPs can manage multiple clients’ Wi-Fi networks efficiently through a single platform, reducing overhead and security risks associated with multi-vendor deployments.
- Businesses with High Wi-Fi Demand: Companies that rely heavily on high-speed internet for productivity and customer engagement, such as offices, conference centers, and public spaces, will benefit from the high-performance Wi-Fi connectivity and advanced security features.
Overall Recommendation
Sophos Wireless is a strong contender in the networking tools and AI-driven product category due to its comprehensive feature set, ease of deployment, and centralized management. It offers a seamless and secure Wi-Fi experience for employees, guests, and visitors, while providing IT teams with the tools they need to maintain and secure their networks efficiently.
For organizations looking to simplify their network management, enhance security, and ensure high-performance Wi-Fi connectivity, Sophos Wireless is a highly recommended solution. Its integration with other Sophos products and cloud-based management make it an ideal choice for those seeking a unified security and networking solution.