Overview
Respondus LockDown Browser is UAH's online testing browser. It is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within a learning management system like Canvas to ensure academic integrity while working on tests and quizzes.
Respondus Monitor is a companion application for LockDown Browser that uses webcam and video technology to prevent cheating during online exams. Respondus Monitor integrates seamlessly with learning management systems like Canvas, and is ideal for non-proctored testing environments such as taking an exam at home.
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System Requirements
For the most up-to-date information on the system requirements for Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, please visit the LockDown Browser resources page and Respondus Monitor resources page.
Operating Systems
- Windows: 11 and 10 Details
- Mac: macOS 11 to 15.0+
- iOS: 12.0+ (iPad only). Must have a compatible LMS integration. Details
- Chromebook: There is a Lockdown Browser Chrome Extension available for use with ChromeOS, though it is not officially supported by OIT. Details
Memory
- Windows: 75 MB permanent space on the hard drive
- Mac: 120 MB permanent space on the hard drive
Browser Requirements
LockDown Browser is a client application that is installed to a local computer. Both the Windows edition and the Mac edition of the browser are based on Chromium, Google's open source framework. Students do NOT need Google's Chrome browser installed; nor will this version affect a Chrome browser that's already installed.
For Respondus Monitor
In addition to the specifications outlined above, Respondus Monitor requires a web camera (internal or external), a microphone, and a broadband internet connection.
Where do I get LockDown Browser?
Before taking a test requiring Respondus LockDown Browser/Monitor, you must first download and install UAH's edition of LockDown Browser on the computer you will be using for the exam.
If your instructor allows you to use your own computer, visit the UAH LockDown Browser download page to obtain UAH's edition of LDB. Please note that you must download the UAH-specific version of LDB in order to access UAH Canvas and take your exam.
For more information on downloading and installing LDB, visit the LDB Student Quick Start Guide.
How Does Duo Work With LockDown Browser?
LockDown Browser does not support Touch ID for authentication with Duo. For this reason, we recommend adding an additional method of authentication to your Duo account such as Duo Mobile or phone authentication. Learn more about adding a device to your Duo account.
If you are taking a test with LockDown Browser for the first time and find that you're unable to authenticate because Touch ID is not available, we recommend doing the following;
- Close LockDown Browser
- Restart your computer
- Open a web browser
- Access the Duo Device Management portal and add an alternate method of authentication
- Sign in to LockDown Browser using this new method of authentication
FAQ
Why am I being prompted to download LockDown Browser when I've already downloaded it?
If you're being prompted to download LockDown Browser even after you've already downloaded the installer, one of the following situations may apply to you.
- Did you download UAH's edition of LockDown Browser? Each institution has it's own version of LockDown Browser. In order to access UAH Canvas and take your exam, you'll need to download UAH's version of LDB.
- Did you finish the installation? Review the installation instructions in the LDB Student Quick Start Guide to confirm your installation is complete.
- Is this a New Canvas Quiz or a Classic Canvas Quiz? New Quizzes will prompt you to open LDB. However, to begin a Classic Quiz you must first open LockDown Browser then navigate to your exam in Canvas. Learn more.
Can I use LockDown Browser on a wireless connection?
While taking an online exam using Canvas, it is recommended that you use an Internet connection with a speed of at least 512 Kbps or higher while taking your exam in LockDown Browser. If you use a wireless UBS modem, laptop connect card, or mobile hotspot connection during an exam, you are more likely to run into problems due to dropped/interrupted connections to the Canvas server. This is because the Canvas server is more bandwidth-intensive (especially during exams) than normal Internet surfing.
If you lose your Internet connection during the exam, it will lock up the browser and not allow you to save answers, move on to other questions, submit or exit the exam. If you have a router, plugging directly into it when taking exams will reduce the chances of connection interruptions.
What do I do if my computer freezes while taking an exam?
If you lose your Internet connection while taking an exam or if you have outdated and/or multiple Java installations, the LockDown Browser and your computer may stop responding or freeze. Shut your computer down and restart. Depending on your system, this could take several minutes and will cause you to lose time on the exam. In most cases, as long as the time has not expired, it should let you back into the exam.
As soon as you have completed the exam, immediately contact your instructor to let them know what happened.
How Do I Use Keyboard Language Switching with LockDown Browser?
Students who need to be able to switch keyboard languages during their exam will need to set up language switching before taking their exam. Refer to the Respondus Support articles linked below for detailed instructions based on your operating system.
Still Have Questions?
Visit our LockDown Browser troubleshooting article for a collection of common issues and resolutions.
If you have additional questions about this topic, please contact the OIT Help Desk.