LockDown Browser
Respondus LockDown Browser is a custom browser that restricts access to other applications, websites, copying and printing during a Canvas exam. Use it when an assessment needs a controlled testing environment. LockDown Browser alone does not record webcam video; instructors can enable Respondus Monitor for automated recording and review of remote exam sessions.
Cost
No costAudience
Students, faculty & staffPurpose
Academic integrityCanvas integration
Configure settings through CanvasGetting started
For instructors: Open Lockdown Browser in the Canvas course, select the quiz's Settings, require LockDown Browser and configure Monitor if needed. Save the settings and explain the testing requirements.
- Prepare students: Provide a practice quiz with the same browser and recording settings as the graded exam. Check that students can use the required devices and permitted resources.
Setup guides: Instructor Canvas guide
For students: Install the ASU version through My ASU > My Apps; check for updates and close other applications before testing. Use the device-specific ASU instructions.
- Launch the exam: For Classic Quizzes, open LockDown Browser and sign into Canvas. For New Quizzes, open the quiz in a regular browser and follow the prompt to launch LockDown Browser.
- Setup guides: ASU installation and troubleshooting | ASU student test guide
Activity examples
- Supervised computer exams: Restrict access to other applications and websites while students take a Canvas quiz in a classroom or testing lab.
- Remote exams with Monitor: Add automated recording when students test away from campus; review recordings and flagged events afterward.
- Practice assessments: Let students rehearse exam launch and any camera or microphone checks before a graded assessment.
Compare your options
Use Respondus LockDown Browser when browser restrictions are the primary requirement. Add Respondus Monitor when automated recording is needed. Consider Honorlock when the exam also needs live proctor assistance during the session.
| Tool | Best for | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| LockDown Browser | Restricting other applications, websites, copying and printing; Monitor adds automated recordings. | You need a controlled browser, with optional automated monitoring for later instructor review. Students install the ASU version. |
| Honorlock | Identity verification, webcam and screen recording, automated flags and live proctor assistance. | You need remote proctoring with live proctor support during the exam. Students use Chrome with the Honorlock extension. |
FAQ
No. Webcam recording requires Respondus Monitor and the instructor's recording settings. If required, complete the webcam, microphone and other startup checks before the exam. Review the exam instructions to see what will be recorded.
Open LockDown Browser, select the information icon and choose Check for Updates. Check before exam day and after installation; note that the application does not automatically update when opened.
Chromebooks use a dedicated extension and have feature limitations. On iPad, use the LockDown Browser app rather than the Canvas Student app; Monitor exams require the instructor to enable iPad use. Phones and other tablets are not supported for taking exams.
Check that the ASU version is installed and current. Follow the correct launch steps for the quiz type. We recommend using asu.instructure.com for Chromebook access; a different Canvas address may cause a server error.
Before starting, close LockDown Browser and resolve background prompts. Use the ASU troubleshooting guide or Experience Center for help. During an active exam, contact support and notify the instructor promptly; reopening or resuming an attempt depends on the exam settings.
Accessibility, privacy, and other considerations
Accessibility
- Arrange accommodations before the exam and test the exact device and assistive software in a practice quiz. Respondus supports several screen readers and other assistive tools, but functionality varies. Some tools must be opened before LockDown Browser. Instructors should set approved timing and attempt allowances in Canvas.
Privacy
- Explain whether the exam uses browser restrictions alone or Monitor recording, including any screen capture. Share Respondus privacy information before testing. ASU notes that browser restrictions and webcam access end when LockDown Browser is closed.
Other considerations
- Provide device requirements, permitted-material rules and a plan for technical interruptions before exam day. Installation may require administrator permission. Virtual machines are unsupported. Review Monitor recordings and flagged events in context rather than treating a flag as a misconduct finding.
Resources
Use these guides for installation, exam preparation and instructor setup.
ASU resources
Device guidance: Chromebook | iPad
Tool resources
Preparation: System requirements | Student help
Rollout of LockDown Browser & Respondus Monitor for Instructors
Accessibility and privacy: Assistive technology support | Privacy Center
Get support
Need technical help?
Contact the ASU Experience Center for 24/7 help at 855-278-5080 or through My ASU live chat.
Use LockDown Browser's Help Center where available, or visit Respondus Student Help. Contact the instructor for exam availability, accommodations, permitted materials or attempt resets.
Want to explore ways to use this tool in your course?
Learning Experience (LX) offers workshops and consultations where you can explore how Respondus LockDown Browser or other enterprise technologies might support your teaching goals.