SafeExamBrowser 3.10.1.864

Secure kiosk browser for web-based assessments

SafeExamBrowser (SEB) is an open-source kiosk-style web browser developed at ETH Zurich to create a locked-down environment for online examinations. SEB launches a configured webpage without an address bar, prevents switching to other apps and blocks access to unauthorized web content and device functions when an assessment is running. The application is intended for use with web-based quiz and e-assessment systems and does not depend on a central cloud service.

Capabilities and configuration

• Kiosk mode and device locking: Uses single-app modes on iOS to lock an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch into an assessment session; an exam can be ended automatically or by using a quit password when configured.
• Encrypted configuration files and links: Uses .seb configuration files and special SEB links or QR codes to deploy individualized exam settings. Configurations can be distributed via links, QR codes or mobile device management (MDM) managed configuration.
• Integration with learning platforms: Integrates with multiple LMS and exam systems. The iOS documentation highlights particularly close integration with Moodle, OpenOlat and ILIAS and mentions compatibility with several commercial and non-commercial exam systems.
• Optional on-screen controls: Provides a configurable Dock and a left slider menu for navigation and session controls such as reload, back/forward navigation and returning to the exam start page, if enabled.
• Cross-platform configuration compatibility: The iOS app uses the same encrypted .seb configuration format as SEB versions for other platforms, allowing consistent exam configurations across environments.

Practical applications and deployment

SEB is designed for institutions that need to run secured, browser-based assessments on both managed and unmanaged iOS devices. When deployed via MDM, initial settings can be pushed to devices; SEB also supports direct start of exams from Safari, mail or messaging apps using config hyperlinks or QR codes. Compatibility with Apple Classroom is noted for centrally starting configured exams on student devices.

Maintenance and platform notes

The iOS release notes indicate ongoing maintenance addressing stability, crash fixes and compatibility with MDM configurations. SEB is released under the Mozilla Public License and is distributed as freeware.