What is Safe Exam Browser and how does it work with Moodle?

Safe Exam Browser (SEB) is a free, open-source "lockdown" browser for online exams. It is available for Windows, macOS and iOS. Moodle supports it directly in the quiz settings, so no extra plugin is needed.

What it does during the exam (according to Moodle's documentation):

• Opens the quiz full screen, with no address bar, and the learner cannot quit until they submit (unless configured otherwise).
• Blocks switching to other applications by default.
• Disables keyboard shortcuts, screenshots and the clipboard (which is cleared).
• Allows only the web addresses you permit (URL filter).

How to set it up in Moodle:

1. In the quiz settings, under Safe Exam Browser, choose "Yes – Configure manually" (or upload a configuration file made with the SEB configuration tool). 2. Pick the options you need (for example, whether a quit link is shown). 3. Learners install SEB on their device. When they open the quiz, Moodle asks them to launch it in SEB; it will not open in a normal browser. 4. Moodle checks a key (Config Key or Browser Exam Key) to confirm the learner is using SEB with the right settings.

New in Moodle 5.3: settings for the maximum number of displays (1–3) and an option to allow screen access for supervision tools.

Limits to keep in mind:

• SEB controls the computer, not the room. It cannot stop a second device, notes on paper or someone helping.
• Only Windows, macOS and iOS are supported, so learners with Chromebooks, Linux or Android devices need an alternative.
• Run a practice quiz first. Most "SEB not working" problems are about installation, settings or permissions, and are easier to fix before exam day.