Learn About Installing Lockdown Browser on Your Computer

What Lockdown Browser Is and Why Institutions Use It

Lockdown Browser is a specialized web browser created by Respondus, a software company founded in 1998. Educational institutions, testing organizations, and some professional certification programs use this browser to administer online exams and quizzes in a controlled environment. The software restricts what a test-taker can do on their computer during an exam, preventing access to other programs, websites, and materials that could be used for cheating.

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The browser works by essentially "locking down" your computer's functionality. When you launch Lockdown Browser to take an exam, it prevents you from opening other applications, switching between windows, accessing the internet outside the testing platform, taking screenshots, or using copy-and-paste functions. This creates a testing environment similar to a physical classroom or testing center, but on your own computer.

According to Respondus, their software is used by over 2,000 institutions globally, including colleges, universities, K-12 schools, and corporate training programs. Major universities like Arizona State University, University of Florida, and institutions across the University of California system have incorporated Lockdown Browser into their distance learning and exam protocols. The software has become increasingly common as online education has expanded, particularly following the shift to remote learning in 2020.

Understanding what Lockdown Browser is helps you prepare mentally and practically for using it. The browser doesn't monitor you through your webcam during the exam (though some institutions may require a separate proctoring service for that). It simply prevents your computer from being used for anything except the exam itself during the testing window. Knowing these limitations beforehand reduces confusion and technical frustration when you sit down to take your test.

Practical takeaway: Lockdown Browser is a legitimate testing tool designed to maintain exam integrity in remote settings. Before your exam date, learn whether your institution requires this software and which specific version you need.

System Requirements and Compatibility Checks

Before you begin the installation process, your computer must meet certain minimum requirements. Lockdown Browser operates on both Windows and macOS systems, though the specific requirements differ between the two operating systems. For Windows computers, you need Windows 7 or later, with at least 100 MB of available hard drive space. For Mac computers, you need macOS 10.14 or later. Both systems require at least 2 GB of RAM, though more is better for overall performance.

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Your internet connection plays a critical role in using Lockdown Browser successfully. You need a stable, broadband connection with adequate speed. Educational institutions typically recommend a connection speed of at least 2 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload for reliable performance. If you're using a wireless connection, position yourself near your router and minimize other devices using the network during your exam. Hard-wired ethernet connections are generally more stable than Wi-Fi, so if possible, use an ethernet cable connected directly to your modem or router.

Before installing Lockdown Browser, check whether your antivirus or security software might block the installation or interfere with the browser's operation. Some older or very restrictive security programs can prevent Lockdown Browser from functioning properly. You don't need to disable your security software, but you should be aware that it might require adjustment. Check your institution's technical support documentation for information about known conflicts with specific antivirus programs.

Different institutions may require different versions of Lockdown Browser. Your school or testing organization will specify which version you need—typically listed on the page where you're directed to obtain the software. Installing the wrong version may prevent you from accessing your exam. Always verify the correct version before proceeding with installation.

Practical takeaway: Verify your computer meets the basic requirements and check with your institution about the specific version needed. Test your internet connection beforehand to avoid connectivity issues during your exam.

Step-by-Step Installation Process for Windows

On a Windows computer, installation begins with obtaining the installer file. Your institution will provide a link to the installer, typically hosted on Respondus's website or your school's learning management system. Click the link and the installer file (named something like "lockdown-browser-setup.exe") will begin transferring to your computer. Depending on your internet speed, this transfer takes between 30 seconds and 3 minutes. The installer file size is approximately 40-50 MB.

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Once the installer file has completely transferred, locate it on your computer—typically in your Downloads folder. Double-click the installer file to begin the installation process. A dialog box will appear asking for permission to make changes to your computer. Click "Yes" to proceed. The installation wizard will open, displaying information about the software and the license agreement. You'll need to read through or scroll to the bottom of the license agreement and click the checkbox confirming you accept the terms before you can continue.

The installation wizard will then ask you to choose an installation location. For most users, accepting the default location (typically "C:\Program Files\Respondus\Lockdown Browser") works fine. If you have specific reasons to choose a different location, you can click "Browse" to select an alternative folder. After confirming the installation location, click "Next" to proceed. The actual installation of files to your computer typically takes 1-3 minutes.

Once installation completes, the wizard will display a confirmation message. You have the option to immediately launch Lockdown Browser by checking the "Launch Respondus Lockdown Browser" checkbox, or you can uncheck it and launch the software later. If you choose to launch it immediately, click "Finish" and the browser will open. If you prefer to wait, just click "Finish" without checking the launch option. After installation, you'll notice a Lockdown Browser icon on your desktop and in your Start menu for future access.

Practical takeaway: Follow each installation step carefully, accept the license agreement, and use the default installation location unless you have a specific reason not to. Test that the browser launches successfully after installation.

Step-by-Step Installation Process for macOS

Installing Lockdown Browser on a Mac involves similar steps but with some macOS-specific differences. Begin by clicking the installation link provided by your institution. The installer file will transfer to your computer—typically to your Downloads folder. The macOS installer file (usually named something like "lockdown-browser-installer.dmg") is approximately 40-50 MB in size, requiring 1-3 minutes to transfer depending on connection speed.

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Once the transfer completes, open Finder and navigate to your Downloads folder. Look for the installer file with a ".dmg" extension. Double-click this file to mount the disk image. A window will open showing the Lockdown Browser installer icon and an Applications folder alias. Drag the Lockdown Browser icon into the Applications folder to install the software. This copying process typically takes 1-2 minutes.

After the file finishes copying, you can eject the installer disk image by clicking the eject icon next to it in Finder. Open your Applications folder (or search for "Lockdown Browser" using Spotlight search), and you'll see the Lockdown Browser application icon. On your first launch, macOS may display a security dialog asking whether you want to open an application from an unknown developer. This is a standard macOS security feature. Click "Open" to confirm that you want to launch Lockdown Browser. This security dialog typically appears only on first launch.

Once Lockdown Browser launches, it may check for system updates or request permission to access certain system features. Allow these requests to proceed—they're necessary for the browser to function properly. You can add Lockdown Browser to your Dock by right-clicking its icon while it's running and selecting "Options" then "Keep in Dock," making it easier to access in the future. After confirming that the browser opens and functions, you're ready to use it for your exam.

Practical takeaway: On a Mac, the installation involves mounting a disk image and copying the application to your Applications folder. Test the browser on first launch and allow it to access necessary system features.

Configuration and Testing Before Your Exam

After installation, configuration involves logging into Lockdown Browser with your institution's credentials. Your school will have provided you with login information or directions for creating an account. Launch Lockdown Browser and enter these credentials when prompted. The browser will then synchronize with your institution's exam server, ensuring it can retrieve your exam when the testing window opens.

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Before your actual exam date, perform a test run if your institution offers a practice exam or tutorial.