Quick answer
Safe Exam Browser (SEB) is a free, open-source browser, developed at ETH Zurich, that locks a computer during an online exam so students cannot open other websites, applications, or shortcuts. It works with learning platforms such as Moodle. Secure online exams combine a lockdown browser with good question design, time limits, randomised questions, and supervision.
- Safe Exam Browser is free and open source.
- It restricts access to other sites and apps during the test.
- It works with LMS platforms such as Moodle.
- Question design matters as much as software.
How does a lockdown browser work?
- It opens only the exam page in full screen.
- It blocks other websites, apps, copy and paste, and screenshots, depending on settings.
- It disables shortcuts such as switching windows.
- The exam platform checks that students are using the secure browser before they start.
What other measures prevent cheating online?
| Measure | How it helps |
|---|---|
| Question randomisation | Each student sees questions in a different order |
| Large question banks | Students get different questions of equal difficulty |
| Time limits | Less time to look things up |
| Application questions | Answers cannot be found by a quick search |
| Live supervision | Teachers watch in the lab or over video |
| Open-book design | Removes the advantage of looking things up |
What are the privacy concerns with online proctoring?
Some proctoring tools record webcam video, audio, and screens, or use automated flagging. These raise privacy and fairness concerns, especially for children. Schools should use the least intrusive option that works, explain it to students and parents, get consent where required under laws such as India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and keep recordings only as long as needed.
How should a school set up secure online exams?
- Choose the format. Decide which exams go online: quizzes, practice tests, or graded exams.
- Pick tools. Confirm your LMS supports a lockdown browser and question randomisation.
- Prepare devices. Install and test the browser on lab computers or student devices.
- Design questions. Use banks, randomisation, and application questions.
- Run a mock. A practice test helps students and staff learn the process.
- Supervise. Plan invigilation and a backup if devices fail.
How does this fit with school exam software?
Online quizzes and tests run inside the LMS or online exam software, with results flowing to the grade book. The Hudace SchoolOS LMS includes quizzes and grade management, and its exam tools cover scheduling, seating, invigilation, and results for written exams.
Frequently asked questions
What is Safe Exam Browser?
A free, open-source lockdown browser for online exams, developed at ETH Zurich.
Is Safe Exam Browser free?
Yes. It is free and open source.
Does Safe Exam Browser work on phones?
It is available for Windows, macOS, and iOS. Check the current supported platforms on the official site.
Can students cheat with Safe Exam Browser?
It blocks many methods on the device, but not, for example, a second device. Supervision and good questions still matter.
Does Moodle support Safe Exam Browser?
Yes. Moodle quizzes can require Safe Exam Browser.
What is online proctoring?
Supervising online exams through webcam, screen recording, or live invigilators.
Is webcam proctoring legal for students?
It depends on local law and consent. Schools should follow data protection rules and use the least intrusive option.