Abstract: The inventive spark arrester comprises an odd number of series-connected spark units forming a chain, with each spark units comprising at least one discharge gap. In order to increase the reliability of protection of electric installation components having a flat voltage—time characteristic by ensuring a low discharge level and a fast response of the arrester, the output of each even spark unit is connected via a resistor to a clamp connecting the arrester to the protected components subjected to a high potential, while the output of each odd spark unit, except the last one, is connected via another resistor to another clamp connecting the arrester to the protected components subjected to a low potential. Preferred embodiments of the arrester promote a generation of a long surface discharge along a surface of tubular body made of a solid dielectric, said body being common for all spark units constituting the arrester.