Safe Exam Browser vs XoLock
Safe Exam Browser
safeexambrowser.org
XoLock
xobin.comSide by side
| Figure | Safe Exam Browser | XoLock |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Self-hosted | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Spec score · Lockdown Browser Software | 7.6 (#10) | 7.5 (#16) |
| Founded | 2009 | 2016 |
| Platforms | The official download page lists current clients for Windows, macOS and iOS/iPadOS. | Windows and macOS run the secure browser, while Chromebooks use a supervised browser mode requiring camera permission. |
| Purpose | Safe Exam Browser is a browser environment for e-assessments that temporarily turns a computer into a secure workstation and restricts access to unauthorized system functions, websites and applications. | XoLock is Xobin’s secure assessment browser for proctored assessments and AI interviews in a locked-down environment. |
Plans
In their own words
Safe Exam Browser
Safe Exam Browser (SEB) is a browser environment for e-assessments that restricts a device to exam use. It runs locally and connects over the internet or a LAN to a learning management system or web-based exam system. Listed compatible systems include Moodle, ILIAS, OpenOlat, Open edX, Canvas, and Inspera Assessment. SEB supports encrypted exam configurations, URL filtering, restricted browser windows, and detection of virtual machines or jailbroken devices.
Controls vary by platform. On Windows, process monitoring can hide or terminate disallowed programs, while administrators can permit selected third-party applications. On iOS, Assessment Mode blocks app switching, unauthorized websites, notifications, calls, and screenshots; activation requires a SEB Quit Password. SEB has no central server or cloud service, though an optional open-source server can be self-hosted. Optional audio or video proctoring is disabled by default and requires candidate consent when configured. SEB is freeware for Windows, macOS, and iOS. The security module for application integrity verification is distributed only as a binary, not as open source.