Disclosed are a sub-module structure formed of an energy storage element, a first turn-off device, a second turn-off device, a third turn-off device, a freewheeling diode, a series resistor, and diodes respectively in antiparallel connection with the turn-off devices, and a converter completely or partially formed of the sub-modules. Also disclosed are a relevant protection unit and a control method for the converter. The converter can be locked when a direct current (DC) fault occurs to prevent an alternating current (AC) system from injecting a fault current into a DC network, so that a transient fault of the DC network can be removed without tripping an AC line switch, thereby rapidly restarting the system. A charging resistor is comprised in the sub-module so that a charging resistor disposed at an AC side of the converter can be reduced and even may not be dispose.