A traditional lightning arrester typically uses Franklin rods, and their effectiveness is based on various factors such as their position, shape, materials, and physical response to the electrostatic field during a lightning strike.
The lightning arrester is typically installed at a high point, making it an attractive target for lightning strikes. When the positive charge rises to the tip of the rod through the grounding system, it allows the lightning leader from the cloud to safely ground through the installed grounding system. As a result, the current discharge is evenly distributed throughout the ground, protecting the structure.