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Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB) is a custom browser that secures the testing environment in Canvas. It prevents printing, copying, accessing other applications, and closing a quiz until it is submitted for grading. Quizzes created for use with RLDB cannot be accessed with standard browsers such as Chrome or Firefox. Users must access the exam using RLDB.

On this page:

If Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB) has already been installed skip to the next section. If not, LockDown Browser must be installed to any computer (or iPad)/Chromebook if allowed by the instructor) being used to take a test. A link to download RLDB is provided on the quiz page. Additionally, students can download Respondus Lockdown Browser here.

Please note: If downloading for a PC, Mac, or Chromebook, students should use the UAB specific link to download RLDB found in the Canvas course or UAB eLearning website provided above. If downloading for iPad, simply search for Respondus LockDown Browser on the App store.

  1. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect you to the internet.
  2. Locate the “LockDown Browser” shortcut on the desktop and double-click it. (For Mac users, launch “LockDown Browser” from the applications folder).
    lockdown browser desktop shortcut
  3. If prompted to close a blocked program (e.g. screen capture, instant messaging) choose Yes or Close Application when prompted.
  4. LockDown Browser (LDB) may require you to manually close applications/tasks and then restart the process by re-opening LDB again.
  5. Login to your Canvas course.
  6. Navigate to the quiz and select the Take the Quiz (A) link. screenshot of the take the quiz button

You may also be required to use a webcam with Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB), which will record you during an online, non-proctored exam. (The webcam feature is referred to as “Respondus Monitor”.)

Requirements for Using LockDown Browser + Webcam to Take a Test:

  • Access Exam with LockDown Browser
  • Integrated or USB Webcam
  • Integrated or USB Microphone
  • Broadband Internet Connection

Startup Sequence

If an exam requires LockDown Browser and a Webcam, the ‘Startup Sequence’ begins after clicking ‘Take the Quiz’. Note this time is not being counted against your test duration.

  1. First, review and agree to the Terms of Use.
  2. The Webcam Check will confirm that your webcam and microphone are working properly. The first time the Webcam Check is performed on a computer, Adobe Flash Player may require you to select Allow and Remember.
  3. Click the Yes (A) button to continue if your webcam is working properly and you can see your image in the window. Click the No (B) button to adjust your webcam and try again.screenshot of webcam check yes or no question
  4. LockDown Browser will also check your microphone by recording a video. Click on the Record Five Second Video (C) button to begin recording. This recording will be discarded when the Webcam Check is complete. The video will playback for your review. Click Continue if you can clearly hear your voice and see your image in the playback video.
  5. Click Close to finish the Webcam Check and continue the Startup Sequence.screenshot webcam check record five second video button
  6. The remaining steps of the Startup Sequence will depend on the settings chosen by your instructor. Follow the instructions and note your progress along the top of the screen. If you encounter a problem, select the It’s not working link for troubleshooting.
  7. Your exam may require a Student Photo. The Student Photo will be used by LockDown Browser to identify you during the Your photo should be taken in a well-lit area and clearly identify your face. Click on Take Picture (D) to take your photo. Click Continue (E) if the photo sufficiently identifies you. If you need to retake your photo, LockDown Browser will allow you to do so. Click Try Again (F) to retake your photo.
    screenshot of webcam check take picture button
    screenshot of webcam check continue or try again buttons
  8. Your exam may require you to provide a Photo ID. Hold your identification to the camera and select Take Picture (G). Only use the type of identification approved by your institution. Refer to the complete list of approved documents.
  9. Your Instructor may require you to complete an Environment Check to make sure your working area is clear of any unapproved resources such as papers, books, phones etc. Click Start Recording (H) and slowly tilt/pan your webcam or laptop so a brief video can be made of the area around your computer. Click Stop Recording (I) when finished.
    screenshot of environment check start recording button
    screenshot of environment check stop recording button
  10. Your exam may require a Facial Detection Check. Your face needs to be well-positioned in the window and clearly visible during the entire exam. You may proceed once facial detection is successful. Click Continue (J) when LockDown Browser displays a green thumbs-up icon (K), representing successful facial recognition.screenshot of facial detection check

Your exam will begin after the Startup Sequence is complete. You cannot exit LockDown Browser until the test is submitted for grading.

For any issues during this process, contact Respondus Support.

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