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Understand SEB Running Modes

Safe Exam Browser

Understand SEB Running Modes

Understand the 2 main running modes of Safe Exam Browser and the differences when using them with Hepi.

Quick Mode Comparison

SEB ModeMethodShort ExplanationImpact
Isolated DesktopCreate New DesktopSEB runs in a separate Windows desktopCreates a clean exam environment, fully separated from the normal desktop
Default DesktopDisable Explorer ShellSEB temporarily pauses the Windows shell process (explorer.exe) on the current desktopThe taskbar, desktop icons, and Start menu temporarily disappear

Why You Need to Know

The running mode depends on your school’s SEB configuration, so the way Hepi works with SEB will also differ.

Default Desktop

In this mode, SEB stays on the default desktop but disables the Windows shell process. This removes access to the Start menu and system files, making the exam environment stricter.

How Hepi Handles This

Hepi runs above SEB and uses the Prevent SEB from closing other apps feature to remain active. Without this feature, SEB’s monitor will automatically close Hepi when you interact with it.

  • Interaction: Use the main Hepi app window.
  • Persistence: Hepi remains available with an always-on-top window.
  • Requirement: This mode requires the Prevent SEB from closing other apps setting to be enabled.
  • Plan: Prevent SEB from closing other apps requires the Pro plan or higher.
  • Admin access: Hepi must be run as Administrator for this feature to work.

Isolated Desktop

In this mode, SEB creates a completely new desktop environment. This fully prevents access to other applications from inside the SEB environment.

How Hepi Handles This

Hepi uses Unlock SEB Desktop to automatically detect the SEB desktop and intervene so Hepi Sidekick can launch directly inside the isolated SEB environment. It also disables commands that block desktop switching, allowing you to freely switch between SEB and the default desktop.

  • Interaction: Use Hepi Sidekick inside the SEB desktop.
  • Switching: Use the Ctrl+Shift+D shortcut to switch back and forth between the SEB desktop and the default desktop.
  • Requirement: Enable Unlock SEB Desktop and Allow switching back to default desktop.
  • Plan: Unlock SEB Desktop requires the Pro+ plan or higher. Allow switching back to default desktop requires the Premium plan.
  • Admin access: Hepi must be run as Administrator for these features to work.

Hepi Features Required for Each Mode

SEB ModeRequired Setting to EnableRequired PlanApp Interface
Default DesktopPrevent SEB from closing other appsPro+Hepi App
Isolated DesktopUnlock SEB DesktopPro+Hepi Sidekick
Tip
Isolated Desktop is the current default SEB configuration used by many schools, but some schools still use the Default Desktop configuration. Hepi automatically detects SEB's running mode and handles it accordingly.

Last updated: 2026-04-28

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