Respondus- Student Quick Start Guide

How To:

  • Get Started with the Respondus LockDown Browser

Applies To:

  • Students

Steps:

What is Respondus LockDown Browser?

LockDown Browser is a locked browser for taking quizzes in Canvas. It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during a test. If a Canvas test requires that Respondus LockDown Browser be used, you will not be able to take the test with a standard web browser. LockDown Browser should only be used for taking Canvas quizzes. It should not be used in other areas of Canvas. 

Install the LockDown Browser

1) If LockDown Browser has already been installed, skip to the next section. If not, LockDown Browser must be installed on each computer (Windows or Mac) being used to take a test.  Your institution or instructor will provide the link for downloading and installing LockDown Browser. Check Canvas for a link for your course. You can also find the respondus download link here:

Download Respondus LockDown Browser - https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?ID=267559239 This installer is only valid for personally owned computers. If you are on an ESU computer, please contact the IT Help Desk for assistance with the installation.

Graphical user interface showing Respondus LockDown Browser information

 2) Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the install. 

Graphical user interface showing LockDown Browser installation button

Taking an Assessment

1. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect you to the Internet.  

2. Locate the “LockDown Browser” shortcut on the desktop and double-click it. (For Mac users, launch “LockDown Browser” from the Applications folder.)  

3. If prompted to close a blocked program (e.g. screen capture, instant messaging) choose Yes when prompted. 

 4. Login to your Canvas course. 

 5. Navigate to the quiz and select the Take a Quiz link

Graphical user interface showing LockDown Browser quiz-taking menu

6. If the instructor created an access code that students must enter to start the quiz. Lockdown Browser will prompt students to enter the instructor-provided code before proceeding with the quiz.

Graphical user interface showing LockDown Browser Access Code menu

Using with a Webcam (Respondus Monitor)

  • You may be required to use LockDown Browser with a webcam, which will record you during an online, non-proctored exam. (The webcam feature is sometimes referred to as “Respondus Monitor.”)  
  • Your computer must have a functioning webcam and microphone. A broadband connection is also required.  
  • If an exam requires LockDown Browser and a webcam follow steps 1-5 in the previous “Taking A Test” section. At this point the Startup Sequence for the webcam begins.  
    • You will first need to review and agree to the Terms of Use. 
    • The Webcam Check will confirm that your webcam and microphone are working properly. The first time the Webcam Check is performed on a computer, Adobe Flash Player will require you to select Allow and Remember.
    • The remaining steps of the Start-up Sequence will depend on settings chosen by your instructor. Follow the instructions and note your progress along the top of the screen.
    •  If you encounter a problem, select the It’s not working link for troubleshooting tips. 
  •  The test will begin after the Start-up Sequence is complete. You cannot exit LockDown Browser until the test is submitted for grading 

Student Resources

Information and installation for the LockDown Browser is provided at the link below:   

Download Respondus LockDown Browser - https://download.respondus.com/lockdown/download.php?ID=267559239 

Respondus LockDown Browser Guides  

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