How to use IP Filters to restrict student access to tests

In this article, you'll learn how to use the IP Filter option on tests to restrict test access to students who are on computers at a specific location.

Basics

An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a number assigned to an Internet-connected device. It serves to identify the device and give the device an "address". Because devices are generally connected to networks in a particular location (e.g. your college campus, your home office, the local coffee shop, etc.) IP addresses can be used to identify where a device is located.

IP Filtering for tests works as follows:

1. You specify that only devices from certain IP addresses may access the test.
2. When students go to take the test from the correct IP address, they can access the test.
3. If they go to take the test from the wrong IP address, they are locked out of the test. Here's what they'll see when that happens.

The typical use for IP Filtering is to ensure that only students in a particular location (perhaps surveyed by a proctor) can access a test. You should not use this tool in online-only courses where your students are located all over the place—it'd be a tremendous hassle keeping track of all the IP addresses you'd need.

Setup

When adding a new test assignment, you can add an IP filter restriction.

1. Follow the instructions for setting up a test assignment.
2. Under Restrictions, check next to Filter IP addresses.
3. Enter the IP address(es) from which you wish to permit access to this test. Consult with your school's IT department if you need help determining what to enter in these fields.
4. When you're done, click Save.