Safe Exam Browser

Transforms any Windows PC into a protected environment for secure online exams.

Overview of Safe Exam Browser

Safe Exam Browser (SEB) is a specialized web browser that locks down a Windows computer to prevent cheating during online assessments. Developed by Educational Development and Technology at ETH Zurich, SEB essentially turns ordinary desktops and laptops into dedicated exam workstations. It achieves this through a combination of system lockdown features and a browser designed specifically for compatibility with major learning management systems (LMS) such as Moodle, ILIAS, and OpenOLAT.

Secure Exam Environment

One of SEB’s main strengths is its ability to restrict access to external resources during exams. When running, SEB blocks system functions like keyboard shortcuts (Alt+Tab, Ctrl+Alt+Del), right-click context menus, and access to unauthorized websites or applications. This tight level of control ensures that students cannot easily navigate away from the exam page or use unauthorized digital resources.

SEB configures the exam environment through encrypted configuration files. These can specify permitted URLs, allowed applications, and system settings, giving exam creators precise control over what is accessible during the test. The encryption and authentication mechanisms prevent tampering, so administrators can ensure that both the exam environment and the browser version remain unchanged.

Integration with Learning Management Systems

SEB is tightly integrated with several popular LMS platforms. It launches directly into pre-configured quiz environments, bypassing any search bars, address bars, or navigation controls that could be used to access external material. The browser interface is intentionally minimal to reduce distraction and the risk of cheating.

To further improve exam integrity, SEB works with special LMS quiz settings or extensions that restrict messaging, notifications, and other potential distractions. These integrations allow instructors to streamline the test-taking process and focus solely on assessment.

Configuration and Deployment

Deployment is straightforward for both managed computer labs and distributed, student-owned devices. SEB can be installed locally like any other Windows app, and exam administrators can distribute configuration files to be loaded at startup or set via command-line parameters. The software supports individual exam setups, making it ideal for institutions with varied testing requirements.

Administrators also benefit from strong customization options. Features such as permitted/excluded applications, full-screen or kiosk mode, and disabling of various operating system features, offer flexibility to suit different exam scenarios. The configuration's encryption means settings cannot be easily bypassed.

Performance and Reliability

Built using the Mozilla Gecko engine, SEB for Windows offers robust website compatibility and renders most LMS interfaces without performance issues. The exam browser is optimized to run efficiently even on older hardware, ensuring a smooth experience for high-stakes assessments.

Updates are frequent and responsive to new security threats or LMS changes. The development team regularly enhances compatibility and usability, making the platform suitable for institutions of all sizes.

Support and Documentation

SEB is well-documented, with comprehensive user guides and online community forums. Administrators can find step-by-step instructions for setup, deployment, and troubleshooting. Given the technical nature of some configuration options, the detailed help resources are particularly useful in ensuring proper exam setup.

Conclusion

Safe Exam Browser stands out as a dependable choice for institutions that require secure online testing. The granular system lockdown, strong LMS integration, and open-source nature make it a preferred tool for educational assessors. While initial configuration may require a learning curve, the benefits in exam integrity and simplicity for test-takers are substantial.