Academic Application: Respondus Lockdown Browser

respondus RespondusLockdownBrowser

Overview

What is it?

Respondus LockDown Browser is a secure browser used for online exams in Brightspace. When an exam requires LockDown Browser, students cannot access it using a standard web browser. LockDown Browser also restricts common actions such as printing, copying, and switching to other applications during the exam.

Important: Respondus 4.0 (quiz authoring) is separate from Respondus LockDown Browser.

Who is it for?

Faculty: Require LockDown Browser for specific Brightspace exams; configure permitted resources; reduce opportunities for academic integrity violations

Students: Take exams that require LockDown Browser

Access

Students: In Brightspace, if a test requires LockDown Browser, it will include a link in its summary page to download and install it.

Authentication

Villanova SSO through the LMS

LMS Integration

Brightspace (D2L)

Cost

Available at no cost to all users with an active Villanova account

Availability

Available 24/7. Students must use a supported operating system and device.

Vendor

Respondus Inc. https://web.respondus.com/

Managed By

Learning Technologies, Academic Technolgies, University Technology Services

Key Features & Use Cases

For Faculty / Instructors

Secure testing environment: Restricts printing, copying, and navigating away from the exam
Course-level configuration: Require LockDown Browser on a quiz-by-quiz basis using the LockDown Browser Dashboard
Practice quiz option: Create a low-stakes practice quiz so students can confirm installation and compatibility before an exam
Optional proctoring add-on: Respondus Monitor can be enabled for webcam-based proctoring (separate product and settings)

For Students

Single-purpose exam experience: LockDown Browser opens the exam in a secure session and restricts other applications and browser functions
Works with Brightspace-required exams: If your instructor requires LockDown Browser, the exam will not be accessible in a standard web browser
Update checks: Students should check for and install updates prior to each exam for the most reliable experience

Getting Started/Quick Start

Faculty / Instructor Setup

In your Brightspace course, go to Quizzes the click on the "Lockdown Browser" tab. They will be directed to the Dashboard through which when can enable the Lockdown Browser to specific quizzes as needed.
Locate the exam you want to secure. Open the menu next to the exam name and select Settings.
Select Require Respondus LockDown Browser for this exam, then configure any additional settings as needed. (More information is at Adding Respondus LockDown Browser to an Exam)
Save and close. Post clear instructions to students and (recommended) provide a practice quiz that also requires LockDown Browser.

Student Setup

In Brightspace, if a test requires LockDown Browser, it will include a link in its summary page to download and install it. If you already have LockDown installed from before you started using Brightspace, you should remove the old version before installing the new one. Once it’s installed, you can click Launch LockDown Browser at the bottom of the test’s summary page to open the test in LockDown.
Restart your computer after installation (recommended).
Launch LockDown Browser, log into Brightspace, open your course, and click the exam link.
Before starting, close all other programs and check for updates within LockDown Browser (Information icon → Check for Newer Version).

How-To Guides & Related Articles

Getting Started & Installation

Related Respondus Products (separate tools)

Respondus 4.0 for Quiz Authoring

Best Practices & Tips

Communicate early. Include LockDown Browser requirements in the syllabus and exam instructions.
Use a practice quiz. A short practice quiz reduces day-of-exam technical issues.
Encourage updates. Students should check for updates within LockDown Browser prior to each exam.
Be explicit about allowed materials. State whether scratch paper, calculators, formula sheets, or external resources are allowed.
Plan for accommodations. Coordinate with appropriate campus offices for testing accommodations and accessibility needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Respondus 4.0 to use LockDown Browser?

No. Respondus 4.0 is a quiz authoring tool. LockDown Browser is used for exam security. They are separate products.

Where do students download LockDown Browser?

In Brightspace, if a test requires LockDown Browser, it will include a link in its summary page to download and install it.

I’m being asked for a password when opening the exam. What should I do?

First, confirm you launched the exam using LockDown Browser (not a standard web browser). If the issue persists, contact the IT Help Desk.

My exam is not launching or LockDown Browser is crashing. What should I try?

Restart your computer, check for updates within LockDown Browser (Information icon → Check for Newer Version), and try again. If problems continue, uninstall and reinstall LockDown Browser.

Can students use LockDown Browser on a Chromebook or iPad?

Device support varies by LMS configuration and exam settings. Students should follow their instructor’s guidance and contact support if unsure.

Training & Resources

Vendor Information

Vendor Webinars: https://web.respondus.com/webinars/

Villanova KB

Browse all Respondus knowledge base articles: https://villanova.teamdynamix.com/TDClient/2759/UNIT/KB/?CategoryID=25461

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