If Safe Exam Browser (SEB) will not launch, crashes, freezes, or appears “stuck”, follow the steps below. This resolves most common SEB issues on Windows computers.
Quick Summary:
SEB sometimes does not close properly and leaves behind stored session/config files. Clearing the SafeExamBrowser folder forces SEB to rebuild those files on the next launch.
When to Use This Fix
- SEB won’t launch or immediately closes
- SEB freezes on startup or stays on a blank screen
- Error indicates a session is already running (even though it isn’t)
- SEB worked before, but suddenly stopped working
Steps to Resolve SEB Launch Issues
- Close SEB and all browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, etc.).
- Restart the computer.
This ensures SEB is fully closed and not running in the background.
- Open File Explorer.
- Enable Hidden Items:
In File Explorer, select View → check Hidden items.
- Browse to this folder:
C:\Users\[username]\AppData\Local
Replace [username] with the Windows username currently logged into the computer.
- Delete the folder named:
SafeExamBrowser
- Restart the computer again.
- Try again: Open Moodle → launch the quiz/exam → allow SEB to start.
Why This Works
SEB may store session settings and temporary files locally. If SEB does not close correctly (crash, forced close, power interruption), those files can remain locked or corrupted. Deleting the SafeExamBrowser folder clears the stored session and allows SEB to start fresh.
Additional Notes
- On personal devices, the account folder name may vary (example:
Default, HP, or a nickname).
- This fix does not affect your Moodle account or course registration.
- If SEB still won’t launch, the issue may be caused by another running application SEB cannot block (screen recorders, overlays, etc.).
Still Not Working?
Let your instructor know immediately. If needed, submit a ticket to ITS so we can help troubleshoot further.