Sophos Server Protection review

Sophos sells server protection as Intercept X for Server and Cloud Workload Protection, with one agent for Windows and Linux machines whether they run on-premises, in virtual hosts or in public clouds. Policies can apply across mixed environments, which helps when a team runs both. The Windows side carries Sophos's best known features: deep learning detection, exploit prevention, and CryptoGuard, which rolls back unauthorized file encryption in seconds. Unauthorized File Protection blocks untrusted executables on servers. For Linux, Sophos says its sensor identifies attacks without needing a kernel module, orchestration or system scans, and uses resource limits on CPU, memory and data collection to protect performance. XDR, container runtime detections and a Live Response terminal round it out, and Sophos MDR is available as a managed service. Sophos does not publish a USD price for servers, so you must request a quote, and some capabilities depend on the XDR tier.

Who it is for

Admins who want strong ransomware rollback on Windows servers and lightweight Linux detection without a kernel module.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• CryptoGuard rolls back unauthorized file encryption
• Deep learning malware detection and exploit prevention
• Unauthorized File Protection blocks untrusted executables on servers
• Linux detection without a kernel module, with CPU and memory limits
• Live Response terminal and XDR across servers, endpoints and firewalls

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: One agent and one policy set for Windows and Linux servers
• Strength: Linux sensor avoids kernel modules and has resource limits
• Strength: Optional 24/7 MDR from Sophos
• Weakness: No public USD price; pricing comes from a form or partner
• Weakness: Many features sit in higher tiers such as XDR
• Weakness: More settings to learn than simpler server scanners

Key facts

• Server OS: Windows, Linux
• Ransomware rollback: CryptoGuard
• Linux kernel module: Not required for detection
• Free trial: Yes

Where it ranks

Sophos Server Protection is No. 6 in our Best Antivirus for Servers verdict.