Respondus LockDown Browser: Student Guide

What is Respondus LockDown Browser?

Respondus Lockdown Browser is a secure browser that locks down the testing environment within Blackboard.

It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during a test. If a Blackboard test requires Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot take is using a standard web browser. Respondus LockDown Browser should only be used for taking Blackboard tests. It should not be used in other areas of Blackboard.


Installation Instructions

  1. Download/Install Respondus LockDown Browser Here (not compatible with Chromebooks)
  2. When this screen appears – click Install Now:
    Respondus Installation Screenshot
  3. Depending on your browser and operating system, you may see options to “Save” or “Run.” Choose “Save” if available.
  4. If you saved the file, go to its folder and double-click the .exe to start installation.


Taking a Test

  1. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect to the Internet.
  2. Locate the “LockDown Browser” shortcut on the desktop and double-click it. (For Macintosh users, launch “LockDown Browser” from the Applications folder.)
  3. If prompted to close a blocked program (e.g., screen capture, instant messaging, etc.), choose Yes.
  4. Log in to your Blackboard course.
  5. Navigate to the exam and select it
  6. A window will open, “Begin: (Name of the test) – Requires Respondus LockDown Browser”. Click Begin.
  7. If your instructor requires a password, a pop-up will prompt you to enter it before starting the exam. If the instructor did not set up the test with a password, you should NOT see a password prompt.
  8. If you see a screen similar to this, DO NOT CHANGE THE PASSWORD. This box should disappear quickly.
    Enter Password for Respondus LDB
  9. The test should start. Once a test starts with Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot leave or close it until you click the Submit button!
  10. Message: To confirm the exam submission. Click OK.
  11. The exam was successfully submitted.

If you have problems downloading, installing, or taking a test with Respondus LockDown Browser, contact your instructor.