A surge protector protects your homes electronics, and electrical devices from spikes in voltage.  The surge protector will regulate the voltage by blocking or shorting ground voltages above a safe level.  Many power strips have a built-in surge protector.  The power strip has loosely been given the nickname “surge protector”.  However, not all power strips have surge protection.  In addition to power strip/surge protectors, there are now surge protectors that can protect your entire house.  These surge protectors should be installed by a qualified electrician.