Overview
Respondus Lockdown Browser (LDB) is an application used by instructors to secure online quizzes, tests, and exams by restricting websites and applications on your computer. You may have instructors that us Respondus +Monitor it is an addition to Lockdown Browser requiring the use of a webcam that "monitors" a student as they take their exam.
Respondus LockDown Browser + Monitor works on Windows and Mac computers. Note: For Mac 10.14 or newer, you need to give permission for Lockdown browser to access your camera and microphone.
What is Respondus LockDown Browser?
Respondus Getting Started
View handout:
Respondus LockDown Browser + Monitor Student Guide
Tips on successfully taking a quiz: It is recommended to be as close to the wireless router as possible, and ideally connect via ethernet (hardwire). If you do not have broadband internet cable (Charter) or DSL (ATT), SVSU ITS recommends to go somewhere with reliable high-speed internet. Exams should not be taken in a public business setting that has free WiFi (Starbucks, McDonalds, etc.). If there is no place to go, anywhere on SVSU’s campus would work for an exam.
Respondus Student FAQ
What is the Monitor feature in Respondus LockDown Browser?
Some instructors may also require you to use Monitor it requires that you use Respondus LockDown Browser along with a webcam to record your testing session.
How do I download Respondus LockDown Browser software?
Students download Respondus LockDown Browser within Canvas (one-time installation) from a quiz that is requiring it.
Documentation: How to install LockDown Browser + Monitor
What are Respondus LockDown Browser system requirements?
- Windows: 11/10 (Windows "S" is not a compatible operating system it cannot be installed.- Instructions to switch out of "S" mode)
- Mac OSX 10.12 to 12+
- iOS: 11.0+ (iPad only). You cannot take the exam if your instructor has not enabled it for the quiz.
- ChromeOS version 88 and higher, but we recommend keeping your Chromebook updated to the latest version.
How do I download LockDown Browser on my Chromebook?
You need to install an extension in your Chrome browser download link is provided when you open the quiz, review the instructions on to download and install on your Chromebook.
How do I download LockDown Browser on my iPad?
If the quiz is enabled for iPad by your instructor, download and install the "LockDown Browser" app from the App Store to the iPad. (Requires iOS 11 or higher.) After installation, launch the LockDown Browser app. Review this helpful guide for first time use skip to Step 2, LockDown Browser setup on iPad.
LockDown Browser is closing itself while trying to take an exam.
There can be connectivity issues to cause Respondus LockDown Browser to freeze while they take an exam.
- A restart of your computer should help resolve connectivity issues. After rebooting your computer, reopen LockDown Browser and navigate to your exam and proceed with taking it.
How do I Update Respondus LockDown Browser to the latest version on my computer?
Open Respondus LockDown Browser (Windows or Mac)
Windows users
- Click the "i" icon in the top-left toolbar.

- The version number and date display, click “Check for Newer Version”.

- The version and new date will display in the message box, if there is an update you will see a “Get Update” button. Click it to update Respondus LockDown Browser.

- You will be prompted to authenticate your account with Multi-factor Authentication.
- Once you have validated your login credentials, the update processes and Canvas opens in Respondus LockDown Browser.
Respondus Student Resources