Respondus Lockdown Browser

Learning and teachingLearning and teaching

Respondus Lockdown Browser is an optional custom browser that locks down the testing environment within Brightspace. This service can only be used with assessments conducted through courses hosted in Brightspace. For more information about Respondus Lockdown Browser for teaching, please refer to TeachAnywhere.


How LockDown Browser Works

  • 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

Who can use this service?

  • Faculty
  • Students

How do I request or access this service?

Instructors who wish to use Respondus Lockdown Browser in their Brightspace courses can contact with their specific course information to enable the service.


What is the cost for this service?

This service is provided free of charge.


When is this service available?

Respondus Lockdown Browser is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except during scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. You can be informed of service interruptions by subscribing to Informed.


How do I get help with this service?

Contact the Computer Help Desk for help with this service: