What kind of Intel CPU is capable to handle the workload?

Question

Hi, 
 I could not find any information about the CPU to run Sophos Home Firewall v20. All I know is that FW v20 only can run on Intel CPUs and supports 4 cores. 
 Given that I have an old Intel Core2 Quad 8XXX, which does not supports Intel AES instruction, 
 would the CPU be running slow as an VPN server? 
 If not, what kind of Intel CPU is recommend? Intel 3rd Gen CPUs? 
 The home firewall will be used at home catering about 2-6 people. Thank you. 
 Regards, 
 Marcus

Prism · Accepted Answer

Wepee said: Is this information still valid in 2024? 
 It isn't. 
 Currently at v20 MR2, AES-NI is supported for Software/VM installations. (Including home licenses.)

alan weir · Answer

If you just want to run bare-metal and not worry about specs and working hardware, I honestly would just buy a used Sophos appliance like the XG or SG 125/135, slap a new SSD in it and install Sophos home version on it. For 2-6 users it would be more than good enough. 
 You can find a ton on eBay for around $100. There are also the fanless Qotom PCs with the Intel i211 network cards that will work and are available for around $150 on Amazon/Alibaba. 
 Most people would recommend these as working with Sophos firewall without needing to build a custom PC if you don't already have the parts.

rfcat_vk · Answer

Hi, 
 the fastest 4 (real) cores you can find, something like a xeon is better and more power efficient. The overall load will depend on fthe number of firewall rules and policies you put in place. There is no benefit from using PC type CPUs because none of the functions are used. 
 Ian

What kind of Intel CPU is capable to handle the workload?

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