LockDown Browser cannot be used for an open book assignment for eBook users.  

Overview

LockDown Browser works in the following ways.

  • Assessments are displayed full-screen and cannot be minimized.
  • 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.
  • Copying and pasting anything to or from an assessment is prevented.
  • Right-click menu options, function keys, keyboard shortcuts and task switching are disabled.
  • An assessment cannot be exited until the student submits it for grading.
  • Assessments that are set up for use with LockDown Browser cannot be accessed with other browsers.

We recommend using Chrome, especially on Mac or iPad devices.

Requirements

LockDown Browser can be used on Windows, Mac, and iPad* devices. This lets students use their preferred device to take exams. 

Students will be prompted to install the LockDown Browser on their device prior to accessing the exam. 

iPad and Mac users should use CHROME, not Safari.

*The iPad setting is now automatically enabled in Advanced Settings.


Chrome OS (such as Chromebooks; not the same as the Chrome Browser) and iPhone. are NOT supported.


Known Limitations

It is always best to test functionality using a sample assignment if you have any concerns.


  1. Cannot be used for open-eBook assignments.
  2. Does not work with Chromebooks.
  3. iPad and Mac users should use Chrome, not Safari.
  4. Marginal Excel (spreadsheet) tools. While it allows for external Excel files to be accessed and used within an assignment (see Using Excel Files with Respondus), it has significant limitations. Known limitations include:
    • Limited toolbar options (example, does not include option to increase/decrease display of decimals)
    • Does not include the Formulas tab or the Solver function.
    • Complex spreadsheet operations might not function properly within the LockDown Browser environment.
    • Unless a custom question is set up in a particular way within the course, spreadsheet content does not get saved.
    • Copy/Paste of spreadsheet content into an assignment is non-functional and would need to be done one cell at a time at best. If functioning, may not paste correctly.
  5. NOT RECOMMENDED for use when assigning questions of the following question types:
    • Those with embedded Excel templates meant to assist students with calculations (no transfer function)
    • Integrated Excel questions
      • We are in the process of testing this and will update this Guide if we find it is compatible.

Always test any Excel-based questions within the LockDown Browser to ensure students can access the required functions and data.