Safe Exam Browser (SEB) is a free browser environment for e-assessments that restricts access to unauthorized system functions, websites, and applications. It runs locally and connects to a learning management system or web-based exam system over the internet or a LAN. Listed compatible systems include Moodle, ILIAS, OpenOlat, Open edX, Canvas, and Inspera Assessment; the site says it can work with essentially any web-based examination system. Controls include encrypted exam configuration files, URL filtering, restricted browser windows, and detection of virtual machines or jailbroken devices. On Windows, administrators can hide or terminate disallowed processes and permit selected third-party applications. On iOS, Assessment Mode blocks app switching, unauthorized sites, notifications, calls, and screenshots, and requires a SEB Quit Password to activate. SEB has no central server or cloud service, though an optional open-source SEB Server can be self-hosted. Audio or video proctoring is optional, disabled by default, and requires candidate consent when configured. SEB says its application-integrity module is distributed only as a binary, not open source.
Who it is for
SEB is designed for secure exams on students’ unmanaged computers and institution-managed Windows, macOS, and iOS devices. Its support is generally aimed at exam administrators; students are directed to their school or exam-system provider.
What is good
- Free clients are available for Windows, macOS, and iOS.
- Connects to learning management and web-based exam systems.
- Windows administrators can allow selected applications during exams.
- iOS Assessment Mode blocks app switching and screenshots.
- Optional proctoring requires candidate consent when configured.
What to know first
- Application-integrity module is not open source.
- Students must seek help from their school or exam provider.
- iOS Assessment Mode activation requires a SEB Quit Password.
- Local log files may contain device and usage details.
Verdict
SEB provides exam restrictions locally, with controls tailored to Windows and iOS as well as compatibility with listed learning platforms. Schools should account for its administrator-focused support and the binary-only integrity module.
Safe Exam Browser plans and pricing
All plansCompared on lockdown browser software
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- Windows, macOS, iOS
- Blocks app switching
- Yes
- Blocks copy and printing
- Yes
- Blocks screen capture
- Yes
- LMS integration
- plugin
