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

The main types of lightning arresters include tube-type, valve-type, and zinc oxide arresters. Each type operates on a different principal, yet their core function is identical—they are all designed to protect communication cables and equipment from damage.