The safest way to protect a computer from a power surge or lightning is to use a:

Using a surge protector is the safest way to protect a computer from power surges or lightning strikes. Surge protectors are specifically designed to absorb excess voltage caused by fluctuations in electrical power, which can occur during events like power surges or lightning strikes. They redirect the excess voltage away from your devices, thereby preventing damage to sensitive electronic components.

Surge protectors are crucial for maintaining the lifespan and functionality of computers and other electronic equipment, as they minimize the risk of electrical damage that can result from sudden spikes in voltage. This makes them essential in protecting against unpredictable power events.

While other devices like power strips may offer a basic level of line conditioning, they do not necessarily provide surge protection. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can also protect against power surges while providing backup power, but its main function is to keep devices running during outages. A multimeter, on the other hand, is a diagnostic tool used to measure voltage and would not provide any protective capabilities against power surges. Thus, a surge protector is fundamentally designed to offer the most effective protection in this context.