Taking an Exam with LockDown Browser
Step 1: Download & Install LockDown Browser
For Windows or Mac:
- You must use your institution’s unique download link to install LockDown Browser.
- Open the exam in a regular browser (like Chrome) to locate the download link.
- Follow the prompts to download and install the browser.
- Installation only needs to be done once per device.
Click here to watch short overview videos on how to download and install.
For iPad / iOS:
- If your instructor allows iPad use, download the LockDown Browser app from the App Store.
- Follow these instructions to use the iPad app.
Step 2: Launch LockDown Browser
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Access LockDown Browser:
- Windows: Double-click the LockDown Browser icon on your desktop
(Blue diamond with gold padlock), or go to:
Start > All Programs > Respondus > LockDown Browser
- Mac: Open the LockDown Browser app from your Applications folder.
- LockDown Browser will then open and prompt you to log in to Canvas.
- Log in to Canvas and navigate to your exam.
- Note: If you try to access a LockDown-required exam from a regular browser, you'll see a message telling you to open it in LockDown Browser instead.
Step 3: Taking the Exam
- Once the exam begins in LockDown Browser, your screen will be locked down:
- You cannot access other websites, apps, copy/paste, print, or message others.
- You must complete the exam before exiting the browser.
- When you finish and submit your exam, LockDown Browser will close, and your device will return to normal.
Using a Webcam (Respondus Monitor)
If your exam requires a webcam, you'll go through a short setup before the test:
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Webcam Check – Make sure your webcam is working.
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Additional steps – May include showing ID or recording your test environment (depends on instructor settings).
- When the exam starts, you'll see a “Recording” icon in the top-right corner.
- After submission, the webcam will turn off automatically.
You won’t be able to exit, minimize, or switch apps while the exam is in progress.
Need to Exit Early?
- If you need to leave the exam unexpectedly (e.g., emergency or internet failure), LockDown Browser will prompt you to enter a reason for the early exit.
- Your instructor will be able to review this reason later.
