Secure Browser
Deploy and use the Secure Browser client.
Overview
CTSO Central provides custom secure browser clients for Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. These clients are used to deliver exams in a secure, locked-down environment. They launch in fullscreen mode and prevent access to other applications on the device.
CTSO Central releases new versions of the secure browser client periodically. In most cases (except for ChromeOS devices), IT administrators won't need to deploy the Secure Browser client to end user devices because the software is designed to run by simply opening the downloaded application. If your IT department needs to pre-deploy the Secure Browser client, please direct them to the instructions provided below. Ensure that they are using the latest version of the Secure Browser client to prevent any issues with your students.
Windows Secure Browser
The Windows Secure Browser is a desktop application that can either be installed on a local machine, deployed across a network, or run by a single-use launcher. It is designed to be used in a locked-down environment, and prevents access to other applications on the device.
Prerequisites
- Windows 10 or 11
Downloading and Using the Secure Browser (for test-takers)
If your exam has been configured to require the Secure Browser, follow these instructions to download and use the Secure Browser client.
-
Log into your exam session at https://etesting.ctsocentral.com.
-
Enter your access key provided by your proctor or test administrator, then click Start exam.
-
Confirm your information on the next screen and click Information is Correct. If any of the information is incorrect, stop and contact your test administrator.
-
Click the link to download the Secure Browser client for Windows. The Secure Browser client will download automatically and does not require installation or special permissions on your computer.
You might receive a warning about the file like this: "This file isn't commonly downloaded. Make sure you trust this file before you open it.".
This is a false positive - the Secure Browser client is safe to use. Hover over the warning and click on the icon to see the file details, then click Keep. On Microsoft Edge and some Chrome browsers, you might receive an additional warning about the file being "unsafe" - click the arrow button next to Delete and click Keep Anyway.
-
Once downloaded, click to open the file. It may take up to 60 seconds to launch, especially on slower devices.
You might receive a warning about the file like this: "Windows protected your PC. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen prevented an unrecognized app from starting. Running this app might put your PC at risk.
This is a false positive - the Secure Browser client is safe to use. Click on More info to see the file details, then click Run anyway.
-
Your exam should automatically launch in fullscreen mode and prompt you to confirm your information. If your exam information does not display and you're instead prompted for an access key, simply re-enter your access key and click Start exam.
Installation Steps (for deployment by an IT administrator)
macOS Secure Browser
The macOS Secure Browser is a desktop application that can either be installed on a local machine, deployed across a network, or run by a single-use launcher. It is designed to be used in a locked-down environment, and prevents access to other applications on the device.
The macOS Secure Browser client supports Apple's Assessment Mode. With this special feature, students don't need to configure their device for special settings to take exams. Once they launch the Secure Browser client, all windows are automatically hidden and the device is locked only to the exam. Once the exam is complete, the device is unlocked and returned to normal.
Prerequisites
- macOS Sonoma or later
Taking an Exam with the Secure Browser
If your exam has been configured to require the Secure Browser, follow these instructions to take your exam.
Installation Steps (for deployment by an IT administrator)
Google ChromeOS Secure Browser
CTSO Central provides a custom ChromeOS Secure Browser extension to deliver exams in a secure, locked-down environment. Once installed, the extension launches in fullscreen kiosk mode and prevents access to other applications on the device.
A system administrator must install the ChromeOS Secure Browser on all target devices. Devices must be licensed with the Chrome OS Education or Enterprise upgrade for the extension to function.
Prerequisites
- Access to your organization's Google Admin Console with permissions to manage ChromeOS devices in your organization.
- Target devices licensed with Chrome OS Education or Enterprise upgrade
- An Organizational Unit (OU) to deploy the extension and web app into.
For ease of use in managing, we recommend creating a dedicated OU for ChromeOS devices that will be used for secure testing. You can easily move these devices between OUs as needed, and once complete with the testing window, moving devices out of this OU will uninstall the extension and web app automatically.
Installation Steps
Related
Learn about CTSO Central's Secure Testing System for browser-isolated exam delivery.
Monitor active test sessions and respond to security alerts.
Instructions for taking an exam on CTSO Central.
Learn what you need in order to use CTSO Central.