What common issue does a surge protector help prevent?

A surge protector is specifically designed to guard electronic devices against damage that can occur from power surges, which are abrupt increases in voltage that can occur due to various factors such as lightning strikes, utility switching, or malfunctioning equipment. By diverting excess voltage away from connected devices, surge protectors help prevent the potential destruction of sensitive electronics, ensuring that they operate safely and effectively.

While the other options touch upon important aspects of electrical safety, they do not align with the primary function of a surge protector. For instance, while power outages can lead to data loss, surge protectors do not prevent outages themselves. Additionally, they do not directly address overheating issues or provide protection against physical damage to connectors, which are concerns that go beyond the specific function of surge protection.