Respondus LockDown Browser is a secure browser used with Canvas that creates a controlled testing environment on a student’s laptop. When a student launches a quiz or exam using LockDown Browser, they are unable to open other applications, access the internet, copy/paste content, take screenshots, or navigate away from the assessment until it is submitted.

This allows teachers to give digital exams and in-class writing assignments while reducing opportunities for distraction or academic dishonesty, without requiring paper-based exams or school-managed loaner devices.

How do I get started?

Respondus LockDown Browser training resources can be found here: https://web.respondus.com/k12/lockdownbrowser/resources/ 

The BB&N Technology Department recommends that teachers begin with these 3 items:

"Preparing your exam: Turn on the LockDown Browser setting" Canvas (New Quizzes)

Read the K-12 Lockdown Browser Quick Start Guide

Click here to access the QuickStart Guide for Preparing Your Exam

Ready to Get Started?

In order to launch Lockdown Browser with your students, you will need to create a quiz in Canvas.  Watch this 3-minute video to get started.  Note: Your students will need to download the browser in order to take the quiz.

When should I use it?

LockDown Browser is a strong choice when your goal is to assess individual student thinking in a controlled environment. You might use it for:

• Timed, in-class essays or written responses

• Quizzes or tests where outside resources are not allowed

• Midterm or final exams

• Assessments where AI tools or internet access would compromise the validity of the work

• Situations where you previously might have used paper exams for security reasons

It works best when paired with clear expectations and thoughtful assessment design.

When should I NOT use it?

• LockDown Browser is not appropriate for every type of assessment. You may want to avoid it when:

• The assignment is open-resource or designed to include research, collaboration, or AI use

• Students need to access external tools (e.g., Google Docs, simulations, coding environments, or specialized software)

• The focus is on process, drafting, or creativity, rather than controlled conditions

• A student has an accommodation that conflicts with the locked environment (see Accessibility section below)

In these cases, consider using a standard Canvas assignment or another platform that better supports your learning goals.

How do I set it up in Canvas?

1. Create your quiz or exam in Canvas. Use either Classic Quizzes or New Quizzes.

2. Enable Respondus LockDown Browser

   • In your Canvas course, open Settings

   • Select the Respondus LockDown Browser link from the navigation menu

   • Find your quiz and click the dropdown arrow

   • Choose “Require Respondus LockDown Browser”

Adjust settings as needed

• Allow or block specific features (e.g., calculator, print)

• Decide whether students can view results immediately or after submission

3. Save and publish your quiz

4. Communicate expectations to students. Let students know in advance that LockDown Browser will be required and that they should install and test it before the assessment.

How should students prepare?

To ensure a smooth testing experience, students should:

• Install Respondus LockDown Browser on their laptop (link provided by the school)

• Restart their computer before the exam

• Close all applications before launching the browser

• Ensure their device is fully charged (and bring a charger if needed)

• Connect to reliable WiFi

• Complete a practice quiz in advance (see below)

Set aside 5–10 minutes of class time for initial setup can prevent issues later.

Practice quiz before exam day

Before using LockDown Browser for a graded assessment, teachers are expected to provide a low-stakes practice quiz. This helps students:

• Confirm that the browser is installed correctly

• Experience what the locked environment feels like

• Identify and resolve technical issues in advance

It is strongly recommended to do this practice at least one week before your first high-stakes use. A simple 1–2 question quiz is sufficient, as the goal is familiarity, not content assessment.

Accessibility and accommodations

• LockDown Browser should be used in a way that supports all learners.

• Students with documented accommodations may require alternative arrangements

• Some assistive technologies may not function as expected in a locked browser environment

• Extended time settings can still be applied within Canvas

• In some cases, an alternative format (e.g., paper, separate setting, or different tool) may be more appropriate

If you have questions about a specific student, please coordinate with the appropriate support team (Student Support, Counseling, etc.) and/or reach out to the Technology Department.

Troubleshooting and support

Even with preparation, issues can occasionally arise.

Common solutions:

• Restart the device before launching the exam

• Ensure LockDown Browser is fully installed and updated

• Check Wi-Fi connection

• Close all other applications before starting

If a student experiences an issue during an assessment:

• Have them raise their hand immediately

• Do not attempt to troubleshoot extensively during the exam period

• Follow your division’s guidance for extended time or re-entry if needed

For help:

• Contact the Technology Department

• Submit a help desk ticket. Include course name, student name (if applicable), and a brief description of the issue