Respondus LockDown Browser on Canvas: Setup and Troubleshooting
Your Canvas quiz requires Respondus LockDown Browser? Here is how to install it, start the quiz, what it blocks, what Monitor adds and how to fix common errors.
Many Canvas quizzes and exams require Respondus LockDown Browser. If you have never used it, set it up well before exam day. This guide covers installation, the start-up process and common fixes.
What LockDown Browser does
LockDown Browser is a special browser for exams. When a Canvas quiz requires it:
- The quiz only opens inside LockDown Browser.
- You cannot visit other websites or switch to other applications.
- Copying, printing, screenshots and right-clicking are disabled.
- Browser extensions do not run.
- You cannot exit until you submit.
Respondus Monitor
Some quizzes also require Respondus Monitor, which uses your webcam and microphone to record the session. Before the exam, you go through a start-up sequence that may include a webcam check, a photo, showing your ID and a short room scan. See what to expect from Canvas proctoring.
Step 1: Install
Download LockDown Browser from the link your school provides, since the installer is tied to your institution. It runs on Windows and macOS, with an iPad app and a Chromebook option that schools can enable.
Step 2: Start the quiz
- Close all other apps.
- Open LockDown Browser. It opens your school's Canvas login page.
- Log in, go to your course and open the quiz.
- If Monitor is required, follow the start-up steps.
Alternatively, some quiz pages include a Launch LockDown Browser button.
Common problems and fixes
"This quiz requires LockDown Browser"
You opened the quiz in a regular browser. Open LockDown Browser and navigate to the quiz from there.
LockDown Browser asks you to close an app
Close the listed app, such as a screen recorder, messaging app or virtual machine software, and try again.
Webcam not detected
Check camera permissions in your system settings, close other apps that use the camera, and run the webcam check again.
Quiz freezes or connection drops
Restart LockDown Browser and return to the quiz. Your answers are usually saved, but the timer keeps running. Contact your teacher with the time of the problem.
Outdated version
If you get version errors, download the latest installer from your school's link.
Do not try to get around it
Prepare beforehand
With extensions and other apps blocked, everything depends on preparation. Use AI-generated practice questions and practice quizzes in the days before. TrustStudy can help check practice questions in a normal browser. See the Canvas exam prep checklist.
Study with TrustStudy
Try the question yourself, then highlight it and press Alt + X to check your answer right on the page. No tabs, no copy-paste. Start with 20 free credits.
Install extensionFrequently asked questions
What is Respondus LockDown Browser?
It is a locked browser used with Canvas quizzes. It prevents you from opening other websites, apps or copying content during the exam.
Where do I download LockDown Browser for my school?
Use the download link your school or teacher provides. It is often found on the quiz page or your school's help site, because the installer is linked to your institution.
What is Respondus Monitor?
An optional add-on that uses your webcam and microphone to record the exam session. Your quiz instructions will say if it is required.