To define which defense tactic is appropriate for your particular application, ask yourself these questions. Basically, there are four kinds of devices to consider. Your computer and electronics dealer can help you determine the most appropriate approach. Surge suppressors act as a fast switch to divert electrical transients and equalize potential. Transients are very fast periods of higher than normal voltage and can result from a variety of internal or external causes.
Surge suppressors protect against catastrophic transient events like lightning strikes.
They protect hardware, but not necessarily data. In order for them to work properly, surge protectors require a correctly wired and grounded outlet. They are not designed to save energy. Also be aware that some surge suppressors will continue to let power through, even after circuits have been damaged, exposing your equipment to other damaging surges. Voltage regulators solve chronic high or low voltage problems.