Surge arresters come in various types, including metal oxide surge arresters, line-type metal oxide surge arresters, gapless line-type metal oxide surge arresters, fully insulated composite jacketed metal oxide surge arresters, and removable surge arresters.

The main types of surge protectors include tube-type, valve-type, and zinc oxide surge protectors, among others. Each type operates on a different principal, but their fundamental function is the same; they are all designed to protect communication cables and equipment from damage.