Why schools need more than just a standard Firewall
Posted on 14 January 2026 by Beaming SupportIn an environment like a school, where sensitive data is handled and students are browsing the web daily, robust firewall protection is essential. Relying on a traditional firewall is no longer an option. At a minimum, schools require a solution capable of deep web filtering and inspection.
This is where the Sophos XGS series excels. As a Next Generation Firewall (NGFW), it goes far beyond basic layer 3 traffic monitoring. Depending on your subscription, you can deploy multiple inspection engines to provide comprehensive server and web protection.
Tailored filtering for the classroom
For most educational settings, we recommend a setup that combines layer-3 functionality with advanced web inspection. This allows for a more granular approach to how different users access the internet.
A typical implementation might look like this:
- User Differentiation: Using Active Directory (AD) integration and network segmentation, the firewall can distinguish between staff, students, and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) hardware.
- Customised Policies: With the Sophos XGS, you can apply specific web policies to each segment. For example, teachers can be granted access to a broader range of resources while students remain within a more restricted environment.
- Granular Control: Content is sorted into Sophos web categories, which you can easily customise. You have the power to whitelist, blacklist, deny, allow, or simply warn users about specific sites.
Going beyond the URL
Modern threats require deeper looking. The XGS uses SSL/TLS inspection to “break” the encrypted webpage URL, allowing it to see if any malicious code is hidden inside. If a threat is detected, access is blocked instantly.
The firewall is also designed to outsmart bypass attempts. If a student tries to use a proxy or finds a miscategorised page, you can apply content filtering on top of standard inspection. By adding a custom list of keywords, Sophos will automatically block any page containing those terms.
As online threats become more sophisticated, security vendors must keep pace. Sophos has tailored the XGS to ensure that in an environment as busy as a school, browsing stays safe and controlled.
- Education
- Fibre
- Data Security
Folkestone St Mary's C of E Primary Academy
A fast and reliable internet connection is a necessity in the modern classroom, but this must be balanced with the very important matter of safeguarding students.
- Education
- Leased Lines
The Sabden Multi Academy Trust
Bringing much-needed synergy to some very special schools
- Education
- Multi-Site
- Leased Lines
- Cost Saving
- Tricky Location
Skinners Kent Academy
Needing a private connection between their two new schools, The Skinners’ Kent Academy shopped around for the most effective and affordable solution. We won on both counts.
- Education
- Leased Lines
- Digital Transformation
St Mary's School
The students at St Mary’s are already facing their own communication struggles. Our solution has genuinely improved the lives of the young people, their parents and staff alike.
- Education
- Fibre
- Data Security
Folkestone St Mary's C of E Primary Academy
A fast and reliable internet connection is a necessity in the modern classroom, but this must be balanced with the very important matter of safeguarding students.
- Education
- Leased Lines
The Sabden Multi Academy Trust
Bringing much-needed synergy to some very special schools
- Education
- Multi-Site
- Leased Lines
- Cost Saving
- Tricky Location
Skinners Kent Academy
Needing a private connection between their two new schools, The Skinners’ Kent Academy shopped around for the most effective and affordable solution. We won on both counts.
- Education
- Leased Lines
- Digital Transformation
St Mary's School
The students at St Mary’s are already facing their own communication struggles. Our solution has genuinely improved the lives of the young people, their parents and staff alike.
Find more advice for your school
This content is brought to you by the Helpdesk Support Team, who provide the backbone for our specialist UK internet service provider.
Being part of this technical-led ISP, the team is committed to constantly sharing their practical, expert advice on reliable connectivity, troubleshooting, and cyber security to help UK organisations maintain secure and smooth operations.