A magnetic interface circuit for interfacing between the line side and the circuit side of a communication channel, such as an Ethernet port, includes a transformer having a primary winding connected to the line side of the channel and a secondary winding connected to the circuit side of the channel. The primary winding is fortified to provide differential mode electrical surge protection on the line side. The transformer design having parasitic L, C and R and, saturation during the surge event, acting to suppress the coupling of the electrical surge to the secondary winding. A voltage limiting device is connected in the circuit side of the channel to limit any voltage surges on the circuit side to a safe level. A pair of voltage limiting devices connected in series with the connection therebetween connected to ground may be used to also provide common mode surge protection.