Not sure where to post this. We have maybe 22 computers in the practice. Only the main servers are connected to a UPS. Given that we're semi-rural, we sometimes have power cuts. To date, this has killed four computers (all of which have been replaced by the PCT). It causes downtime and stress so want to look at surge protection.

Each room in the surgery has a minimum of six sockets (well, three "double" sockets). Realistically, it's only one computer in each room that needs protection. The secretaries' office have five computers.

Is there a proper way to surge protect our hardware?

It is a requirement for surgeries here to have 'IT' sockets in each room. These are connected to a central surge protector.

If rewiring isn't an option, I generally use 8x extensions with built in surge protectors. They also often include phone and or network surge protectors as well. Brennstuhl (Burning stool) is the big named brand for such devices over here, although Belkin make them as well.

Either plugin 8-way ones or you'll need to get the rings rewired by some sparkies

Surges need slightly different solutions to power cuts. I use Belkin surge protectors. Amazon sell them. They come in all flavours though I would opt for the gold variant as that comes with unlimited cover for hardware. Though for power cuts you will need a UPS for each computer. Some will come with surge protection, though you could put the UPS behind a surge plug for additional protection. Go for online protection as that eliminates the delay between the power cut and the UPS kicking in.

UPS for each computer is a bit OTT. The only computers that really need it are the servers.

There are 8-way sockets but realistically only the PC itself needs to be plugged in.

Currently looking at single socket surge protectors. Rewiring would cost a lot more.

Belkin SurgeMaster, 4-Way, Essential Protection - Home Appliances, 2m Cable


I have dozens of these for everything including speakers and food mixers.