Respondus Lock Down Browser

LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment in Canvas. When students use LockDown Browser to take a Canvas Quiz, they are unable to print, copy, go to other websites (unless you allow a particular website), or access other applications.  If a student closes the quiz before they are finished, they will be required to give a reason that the instructor will be able to review. Quizzes with LockDown Browser enabled cannot be taken with standard browsers. 

LockDown Browser functions much like a standard browser, but some options have been removed or work differently. The list below highlights some of these differences. 

  • Modified Toolbar - the condensed toolbar includes only Forward, Back, Refresh, and Stop functions.   

  • Test Mode - tests are shown full-screen and cannot be minimized, resized, or exited until submitted for grading.  

  • Disabled Controls - all printing, keystroke combinations, screengrab, function keys, and right-click menus have been disabled.   

  • Links - links to other web servers will open in a new, secure window and prevent browsing beyond that page.  

  • Blocked Features and Applications - the Start button (Windows), system tray, and menu bars have been removed. 

Table of contents:

Installing LockDown Browser

Students must install LockDown browser on their personal device, or use LockDown on a lab computer in order to take a LockDown enabled quiz in Canvas. 

Copy that link and post it somewhere in a Canvas course for students to access.

LockDown can be installed on:

Windows: 10 and 11 (cannot be run in S mode)
Mac: macOS 10.13 - 13.0+
iPad: iPadOS 11.0+, LockDown can be installed from the App store and then the student will be asked for their institution name upon first launch.
Chromebook: LockDown Browser for Chromebook minimally requires the version of ChromeOS that Google makes available via their Long Term Support (LTS) channel. More information

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Enabling LockDown in Canvas

The LockDown tool is disabled in a Canvas course by default.  To enable it, see our page for enabling a tool in the course navigation.

Once the tool is enabled, LockDown can be enabled on individual Quizzes in Canvas:

  1. Click the LockDown Browser link in the Course Menu.

    Screenshot of a Canvas course menu, the LockDown Browser option is highlighted.
     
  2. Click Authorize, this will be a one-time authorization.
  3. A list of all Canvas Quizzes is displayed.  Find the desired quiz, click the Drop-down arrow next to it and click Settings.
  4. Select Require Respondus LockDown Browser for this exam.
  5. If desired, set a Password
  6. Click Advanced Settings for more options, for example, if you want to allow a particular website to be accessible during the test, that is enabled in the Advanced Settings.
    Screenshot of the Respondus Lockdown settings in a Canvas course. The advanced settings area is expanded and the option to allow students to use an iPad is enabled.
     
  7. Click Save + Close.

We strongly encourage instructors to set up a no-stakes practice Quiz that requires LockDown Browser to give students a chance to practice, and ensure that the process works smoothly on their personal devices.

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Classic Quizzes vs New Quizzes

The way students access a quiz in Canvas with LockDown enabled depends on if it is a Classic Quiz or New Quiz.

For a Classic Quiz: students will start by opening LockDown Browser, access the course and launch the quiz.

For a New Quiz: students will start in a regular browser like Chrome or Safari, access the course and launch the quiz, they will then be prompted to allow LockDown Browser to launch.

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Sample Syllabus Language

Using LockDown Browser for Online Quizzes

This course requires the use of LockDown Browser for online quizzes in Canvas. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of LockDown Browser.

Then download and install LockDown Browser.

Once you have installed  LockDown Browser, please follow the step-by-step student guide for detailed directions on launching LockDown Browser:

FACULTY NOTE: Please provide the correct Respondus Lockdown Browser student guide depending on whether you are using new quizzes or classic quizzes.

To prepare for our upcoming assessment, I'll provide a required practice quiz on Canvas. This lets you test your tech and get comfortable with LockDown Browser. If you face any technical issues during the practice quiz, contact the Service Desk for assistance 

FACULTY NOTE: Respondus recommends that all instructors offer a required practice quiz to allow students to test their technology before a formal, high-stakes assessment. If students encounter any issues with the practice quiz, they should contact the Service Desk for assistance.

When you are ready to take your exam, be sure to: 

  • Verify you have a stable internet connection ahead of class
  • Turn off all mobile devices, phones, etc. and don't have them within reach
  • Clear your area of all external materials — books, papers, other computers, or devices
  • Remain at your desk or workstation for the duration of the test and listen for any other instructions
  • LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you will be unable to exit the test until all questions are completed and submitted

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