Respondus LockDown Browser is a secure browser for taking exams in Blackboard. LDB prevents the student from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during the exam. If a Blackboard exam requires the use of Respondus LockDown Browser, students will not be able to take that exam with a standard web browser.

Installing LockDown Browser

LockDown Browser must be installed on each computer (Windows or Mac) used to take an exam. 

1. The institution or instructor must provide the link to download and install LockDown Browser, which is specific to each institution.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect to the Internet.
4. Look for the "LockDown Browser" shortcut on the desktop and double-click it. (For Mac users, launch "LockDown Browser" from the Applications folder.)
5. If prompted, close a blocked program (for example, screenshot, instant messaging) by selecting Yes. Or, close LockDown Browser and close the blocked program before restarting.
6. Log in to your Blackboard course.
7. Go to the exam and access it.
8. If the instructor requires a test password, a new window will appear asking for the exam password. Enter the password and click Start Exam.
9. The exam will then begin. (Note that, once an exam has started with Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot exit until you click the Submit button.) 

Using the camera (Respondus Monitor)

You may be required to use LockDown Browser with a webcam, which will record you during the exam, unprocessed. (The webcam feature is sometimes called "Respondus Monitor") The computer must have a working webcam and microphone. A broadband connection is also required.

If an exam requires LockDown Browser and a webcam, follow steps 1-5 from the previous section.  

At this point, the webcam startup sequence begins.

1. First, you will need to review and accept the Terms of Use.
2. The webcam check will confirm that the webcam and microphone are working properly.
3. The remaining steps in the startup sequence will depend on the settings chosen by the instructor. Follow the instructions and watch the progress at the top of the screen.

If you encounter a problem, select the Not working link for troubleshooting suggestions.

The exam will begin once the startup sequence is complete. You cannot exit LockDown until the exam is submitted for grading.   

If you have trouble taking an exam, installing, or testing Respondus LockDown Browser, contact the instructor.