Safe Exam Browser

Pros

• Free and secure environment for online testing
• Compatible with major LMS platforms
• Customizable and encrypted exam configurations
• Advanced authentication for exam integrity
• User-friendly interface on various operating systems

Cons

• May require technical knowledge for initial setup
• Limited browsing functionality by design
• Compatibility with specific systems or configurations may vary

Streamline your Online Examinations with Safe Exam Browser

Safe Exam Browser (SEB) is a cutting-edge, cost-free web browser-based application tailored for administering secure online assessments. It strategically converts conventional computers into fortified examination terminals, safeguarding academic integrity by monitoring and controlling access to auxiliary applications, system functionalities, and internet resources.

Transforming Educational Assessments

SEB is more than just software; it represents a paradigm shift in how educational assessments are conducted. It is engineered by the collaboration between Educational Development and Technology (LET) and the esteemed ETH Zurich. The browser-based environment ensures that each workstation becomes a secure testing node, devoid of external interferences and improprieties.

Designed with educational institutions in mind, SEB restructures a workstation into a trustworthy system for tests and quizzes. By curating system access, it blocks off miscellaneous resources that can potentially be exploited for cheating, such as certain websites, third-party applications, or system utilities.

Compatibility with Leading Learning Management Systems

SEB operates seamlessly on Windows-based computers, utilizing a network connection to interface with an educational institution's Learning Management System (LMS). It's noteworthy that SEB works in harmony with many of the popular web-based LMS platforms, such as OpenOLAT, ILIAS, and Moodle, all of which have adopted exam modes that integrate flawlessly with SEB.

Key Components

The backbone of SEB includes two vital parts: a browser interface and the kiosk application. The browser serves as the primary interaction window for the exam, while the kiosk application anchors the system, restricting the test environment to the parameters necessary for the assessment. It plays a pivotal role by initiating the Safe Exam Browser as well as facilitating the use of permitted third-party applications.

SEB presents the exam content from the LMS utilizing a locked-down URL and deliberately omits the typical navigational tools found in standard browsers, like the address bar or search box. SEB in its Windows variation relies on the Mozilla Gecko engine, invoking a reliable, stable browsing experience similar to Firefox.

Customization and Security

One of the greatest strengths of Safe Exam Browser is its tailored configuration capabilities. With the high-level encryption protecting each exam's settings, SEB ensures that assessments remain secure, even on unsupervised devices such as student-owned laptops or tablets.

SEB also features advanced authentication procedures, enabling LMS systems to confirm that the exam is being attempted using the sanctioned version of SEB with unaltered settings. This ensures a level playing field for all examinees.

UI and Integration

The current incarnation of SEB showcases a unified platform distinguished by its ease-of-use, a streamlined interface, and configuration files that ensure compatibility across multiple operating systems. The software takes in account the dissimilarities between platforms to assure uncomplicated integration.

SEB on Different Platforms

For Windows PCs, SEB unfolds a unique kiosk application that construes a distinctive, controlled desktop environment, disabling customary system shortcuts and mouse commands. Firefox, in its specialized runtime mode, is the chosen medium to connect to the LMS through a pre-designated URL.

Conversely, the macOS and iOS versions of SEB manifest as single-piece applications, utilizing the dependable WebKit engine to power the browser framework—offering a comparable assurance of integrity as seen in the Windows version.

A Reliable Choice for Secure Online Exams

SEB stands as a pillar among the options available for secure, online examinations. With its integrated features and foolproof exam system, educators are afforded control and reassurance in protecting their examination content. It’s tailored to curb any unlawful access to materials or websites, making it a staple tool for e-assessments.

Pros

• Free and secure environment for online testing
• Compatible with major LMS platforms
• Customizable and encrypted exam configurations
• Advanced authentication for exam integrity
• User-friendly interface on various operating systems

Cons

• May require technical knowledge for initial setup
• Limited browsing functionality by design
• Compatibility with specific systems or configurations may vary