Core i3 6320 vs Xeon E3-1200

Question

I just bought a motherboard for a new setup: X11SSI-L4NF. I was almost for sure just going to get the i3-6320, but for grins happened to lookup the price of the E3-1200 Xeon. They are within $25 of each other. I assume the i3 is better due to clock speed of 3.9GHz vs 3.0GHz and assume the parts that make the Xeon a great processor for server grade stuff isn't going to be effectively utilized in this type of system, but I figured it was worth a post before I do so. Advice appreciated. 
 
 Thanks, 
 Chris

William Warren · Accepted Answer

ok with two devices doing the majority of the work and a dual core cpu you will get about 250-300 megabits/sec MAX with ips on due to your high ghz intel cpu. The only way to approach 500 megabit with ips on is more cores at 3.0 ghz or faster. but no more than quad core so no i-7(ht gives you too many threads to push the cpu freq high enough to be effective). so i-5 only is what i would recommend. also MINIMUM of 8 gigs of ram with 16 being my recommendation. AND more simultaneous users. You can get 500 megabits with a QC cpu at 3.0 ghz or faster and 3-4 simultaneous heavy traffic users. each user will max out at 250-300 megabits though. I have posted many in depth articles about snort on here..you will have to look them up as i am not going to post those dissertations again..:) Memory speed is not that important in your scenario..:)