What is the Respondus Lockdown Browser?

LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within a learning management system. The purpose of the Lockdown Browser is to lock down student computers to uphold academic integrity while taking a test in Blackboard.

Here are some of the key features of the Respondus Lockdown Browser:

• Assessments are displayed full-screen, cannot be minimized, and cannot be exited until the student submits it for grading
• The internet browser menu and toolbar options are removed, except for Back, Forward, Refresh and Stop,
• Prevents access to other applications including messaging, screen-sharing, virtual machines, and remote desktops,
• Printing and screen capture functions are disabled for the student,
• Copying and pasting anything to or from an assessment is prevented,
• Assessments that are set up for use with Lockdown Browser cannot be accessed with other browsers

How do I download Respondus LockDown Browser before my test/exam?

Learn how to download Respondus LockDown Browser by following the instructions in the following video.

Students: What should you know before you begin with the Respondus Lockdown Browser?

Students must use a computer that satisfies minimum requirements for Windows, ChromeOS, iPadOS, and MacOS described here.

Please also follow the recommendations described below:

• Respondus has a dedicated Student Help page – there is a quick start guide for Blackboard Ultra which is linked here, and a Technical Support page for Students here.
• The Innovative Learning Support Centre is here to help you, as a student, if you need support. If an issue arises during or after a test and you cannot resolve it, please first discuss this with your instructor. They may ask you to submit a support request by accessing this link, but the Respondus Support Team may also able to answer about technical issues and errors; consider contacting them or find support resources from Respondus here.

What should I know before my exam/midterm? 

• Know the basics of Blackboard: Log in ahead of time, check browser compatibility, and explore your course site. Humber provides student tutorials and BB Quest to learn navigation, tests, and submissions. Learn more at Innovative Learning’s Blackboard Resources and Help Guide. 

• Understand the plan: Check your Blackboard course, critical path and course outline for dates, format, materials allowed, and instructor announcements.  

• Need help preparing? Humber has a variety of resources to help you: 

• You can find peer assisted learning support, the test centre, the math & writing centre, and the accounting centre, which will all help you with your unique learning needs, peer tutoring and other academic supports. 

• Humber also has health services, peer wellness, and counselling support. 

• You can also find accessible learning services and Indigenous Education and Engagement to support you. 

How can I prepare for my midterm/exam? 

• Complete the practice quiz in advance to ensure your device and browser work under exam conditions (if your instructor has included a practice quiz). 

• Prepare your materials and internet: Use a reliable internet connection (avoid switching networks during the exam/midterm), keep your device plugged in and fully charged, find a quiet space, and close extra apps to reduce lag during your test. 

• If your midterm/exam is using Respondus Lockdown Browser, find student resources and help on Innovative Learning’s website. 

What if something goes wrong during my midterm/exam? 

• Document the issue: take a timestamped screenshot or screen recording and inform your instructor as soon as possible. 

• Patterns of repeated issues may be reviewed under academic integrity policies.  

• Follow your instructors’ instructions: They may provide you with an additional attempt to complete the midterm/exam or may reschedule your midterm/exam. 

Additional Resources and Support

Consider reviewing the information about Respondus in Blackboard, an article created by Anthology here.