How to Install and Use the Respondus LockDown Browser (Student)

The Respondus LockDown Browser application is a separate browser that your instructor may require to take a test in Blackboard. If a test in Blackboard says Requires Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot take the test using a standard browser such as Safari, Firefox, Chrome, or Edge. The LockDown Browser application only needs to be installed one time on a computer. Instructors choose if a Blackboard test requiring LockDown Browser also requires a webcam.

Install the LockDown Browser

System Requirements
(Note: most tests do not support iPads or Chromebooks - contact your instructor)

Step 1

Log in to myMason.gmu.edu, The bottom of the Home page has the link to download the software.

Lockdown Download info

Step 2

Follow the on-screen prompts to download the correct Respondus browser for your computer (Windows or Mac).

Step 4

Locate and double-click the downloaded file to start the setup process and follow on-screen instructions.

Step 5

Once installed, open the application. Look for the LockDown Browser icon or look in your computer's application folder.

LockDown Browser       LockDown Browser

When you click on the icon, it will open directly to myMason/Blackboard, where you can log in and find your course.

Step 6

You can now begin your exam. Please read all instructions as your instructor may require a password to enter the test. Your instructor may provide you with a practice quiz to test your system before you exam.

If your test requires Monitor (webcam recording) additional information is available here.

You can now begin your exam. Please read all instructions as your instructor may require a password to enter the test.

Additional Information and Troubleshooting

To verify you are running the latest version, start Respondus LockDown Browser and select About from the toolbar, and then click Check for Update. The version will be displayed, and you will be able to download a newer version if one is available.

Repondus Student Quick Start Guide

Respondus Troubleshooting Knowledge

Respondus Data Privacy Overview

Troubleshooting Steps

  • Update to the latest version – select About from the top of the program.
  • Restart your computer and close all applications before starting Lockdown Browser.
  • Uninstall and reinstall Lockdown Browser.
  • If you have multiple monitors, unplug the second monitor.
  • If you receive the error “There is a problem with the settings for this exam” your instructor may need to fix this on their end.
  • Errors such as “0x-AWS-xxx Unable to connect to Respondus Server (AWS)” or "Connecting to media server, please wait..." have a few potential causes. Try temporarily turning anti-virus and firewall programs off (or and then opening Lockdown Browser. Confirm the time and time zone are correctly set on your computer. Your network/internet connection may be blocking the software - try another network. See this help page.
  • If you get a spinning wheel when waiting for your webcam to display, another program on your computer may still control the camera or microphone. Restart your computer. Read more.
  • For webcam issues, click the Help Center? button at the top toolbar. Follow the troubleshooting steps. Once you click that the steps did not fix, a live chat option will appear. Work with this live chat feature to troubleshoot. If you do not see the Help Center icon, this indicates your anti-virus or firewall settings are blocking. Refer to earlier step above to resolve.

Respondus maintains a searchable list of errors and fixes.

Trying another computer is often the quickest solution. Document any issues, including taking a photo of errors with your phone, to send to your instructor or to the ITS Support Center.

Last modified: February 23, 2021