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Introduction:
Respondus LockDown Browser is a custom browser that provides a secure testing environment within Brightspace. When students use LockDown Browser to take quizzes or exams, the system restricts their ability to print, copy, access other websites or applications, or close the assessment until it is submitted for grading.
Assessments configured for use with LockDown Browser cannot be accessed using standard browsers. Although it functions similarly to a typical browser, LockDown Browser includes specific restrictions designed to maintain the integrity of the testing process.
Download and Install Respondus LockDown Browser:
Method 1: From UTRGV Brightspace Homepage
1. Log into Brightspace
2. Scroll down to the "Student or Faculty Tech Downloads" section on the Brightspace homepage.
3. Click the Respondus LockDown Browser download link that matches your device (Windows, macOS, or Chromebook).
4. You will be directed to the Respondus download page. Click the download button to begin.
5. Locate the downloaded installation file on your device.
6. Double-click the file to start the installation. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Method 2: From a Brightspace Quiz Page
1. Log into Brightspace
2. Navigate to the course and open the quiz that requires Respondus LockDown Browser.
3. Scroll down and click the link that says “Download and install the latest version of LockDown Browser.”
4. You will be redirected to the Respondus download page. Click the download button to begin.
5. Find the downloaded installation file on your device.
6. Double-click the file to launch the installer, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Method 3: From the Software Center (This method is both required and available only when using a UTRGV-IT managed device.)
1. Log in to the UTRGV-managed computer using your UTRGV credentials.
2. Open the Software Center.
Use the Windows search bar to type and select Software Center from the results.
3. Go to the "Applications" tab.
4. Find and select the Respondus LockDown Browser icon.
5. Click “Install” to begin the installation process.
6. Once installed, follow the steps below on How to Launch a Quiz that Requires Respondus LockDown Browser.
How to Launch a Quiz that Requires Respondus LockDown Browser
Note: Before taking a test using Respondus LockDown Browser, make sure the application is installed on the device that will be used for the test. You can download it by following the steps above.
1. Open a regular web browser (Google Chrome is recommended).
2. Log into Brightspace
3. Navigate to your course and access the quiz that requires LockDown Browser.
4. Click on the quiz title to open it.
5. Carefully read the quiz instructions provided on the page.
6. When ready, click the button to launch LockDown Browser
(If you have not yet installed LockDown Browser, you can select the option to download and install the latest version before proceeding).
7. If prompted, select “Open LockDown Browser.”
This will close your regular browser and open the quiz in Respondus LockDown Browser.
8. Follow any on-screen prompts to begin the quiz.
The Lockdown Browser Interface:
1. Modified toolbar – only includes forward, back, refresh, and stop functions.
2. Assessment Mode – Assessments are only shown in full-screen and cannot be minimized, resized, or exited until submitted for grading.
3. Disabled Controls – All printing, keystroke combinations, screen grab, function keys, and right-click menus have been disabled.
4. Links – Links to other web servers do not compromise the secured testing environment.
5. Blocked Features and Applications – the start button (Windows), system tray, and menu bars have been removed.
FAQ's:
How do I take an exam using Respondus LockDown Browser once it's installed?
After installing LockDown Browser, students log into Brightspace as they normally would and navigate to the exam. Before starting the exam, it's important to close any other open windows or applications. When you select to start the exam, LockDown Browser should automatically open.
The LockDown Browser froze while taking an exam. What should I do?
If you are not able to complete a quiz or exam because the LockDown Browser is not responsive and will not allow you to continue to the next question, you must restart your computer.
Do this by holding down the power button on your computer for five to ten seconds until the computer completely turns off. Restart your computer and try to complete your exam again. If you are not able to complete your exam, please contact your instructor to explain the issue.
The COLTT Help Desk is not able to reset assessments without direct permission from the instructor of record of your course.
What should I do if Respondus LockDown Browser keeps freezing or kicks me out of the exam?
If you experience repeated disconnections, freezing, or are unable to complete your exam in LockDown Browser, follow these steps to troubleshoot:
- Ensure you have the latest version of LockDown Browser
- It's recommended to download and reinstall the latest version before each exam. You can do this from the quiz launch page in Brightspace or from the download links provided.
- Perform a hard restart of your computer.
- Hold down the power button for 5–10 seconds to completely power off the device, then turn it back on.
- Run the LockDown Browser System Check.
- Use the “Help Center” option within LockDown Browser to run a system check/webcam check and confirm your device meets all requirements and has a stable connection.
- If using Wi-Fi
- try to reduce Internet usage on other devices connected to the same network and stay as close to the router as possible. For a more reliable connection, use a wired Ethernet connection if available. Depending on your device, you may need an adapter to connect the Ethernet cable.
- If issues continue
- consider switching to a different device or connecting through another network to see if the problem persists.
- Alternatively, UTRGV has computer labs on campus
- with Respondus LockDown Browser already installed. These labs provide a stable testing environment if you are unable to resolve issues on your personal device. (Computer Lab Information)
Additional Resources:
Support:
For additional support, feel free to contact our COLTT Help Desk at 956-665-5327 or 956-882-6792.