What It Is
Respondus LockDown Browser is a secure web browser that prevents students from printing, copying, visiting other websites, or opening other applications during an online exam in Blackboard. When a test requires LockDown Browser, students must open the exam inside that special browser rather than through a regular web browser.
Why It Is Used
LockDown Browser helps create a controlled online testing environment that functions like an in-person exam room. It is most useful for high-stakes tests and quizzes where academic integrity is a top priority.
However, it can cause frustration if students do not launch it correctly or if they try to access exams through unsupported apps such as the Blackboard mobile app.
Setting It Up in Blackboard
To enable LockDown Browser for a test:
- Open your course and go to Course Tools → Respondus LockDown Browser.
- You will see a list of your tests. Click the dropdown arrow next to the test name and choose Settings.
- Select Require Respondus LockDown Browser for this exam.
- (Optional) Check Require LockDown Browser to view feedback and results if you want students to re-enter the browser to review their results.
Note: This option is located in the Advanced Settings area of the Respondus LockDown Browser dashboard.
Tip: If students report that they cannot view their score or feedback, it is usually because this setting is checked. In that case, they must re-open the test through LockDown Browser to see their results.
Preventing Common Student Issues
Most access problems occur when students use the wrong device or browser. Here is how to help them avoid issues:
1. Access Blackboard through the MyDaemen portal in Chrome
Students should not use the Blackboard mobile app or Safari. These are not supported by LockDown Browser and will prevent the test from opening.
2. Provide a Practice Quiz
Create a short, no-stakes “Practice Test with Respondus LockDown Browser.” This gives students a chance to confirm their setup and fix any problems before a real exam.
3. Post Clear Instructions
In your test description, include a note like this:
This exam requires Respondus LockDown Browser. Access Blackboard through the MyDaemen portal in Chrome. The Blackboard app will not work.
4. Share Troubleshooting Steps
If a student cannot open the exam, they should:
- Use Chrome
- Access Blackboard through the MyDaemen portal
- Restart the computer
- Reinstall or update the LockDown Browser
When to Use It and When Not To
LockDown Browser works best for exams that are mostly multiple choice, short answer, or essay-based.
It is not recommended for assignments that require file uploads, multimedia submissions, or external tools such as Turnitin, Flip, or Padlet, because those tools may not open correctly inside the locked environment.
Check out more articles about the Lockdown Browser.
Special Note: Using LockDown Browser with Pearson Tests
If you are using Pearson MyLab or another Pearson product that integrates with Respondus, there is one extra step you must complete before LockDown Browser will work correctly.
Each instructor has a unique password or code that must be entered into their Pearson dashboard to connect Respondus and Pearson. This code is found in the Respondus LockDown Browser dashboard within Blackboard, usually under a section labeled Other Systems or Pearson MyLab.
Once you locate the code, copy it and paste it into the appropriate field in your Pearson course settings. This links your Pearson course to Respondus and allows LockDown Browser to function properly for your Pearson exams.
Because this password or code is unique for each faculty member, IT staff or administrators may not have access to it. If you experience issues, check your Respondus dashboard first. Once the code is entered, LockDown Browser should work seamlessly with your Pearson tests.