Respondus Lockdown Browser for Mac

Product overview and purpose

Respondus LockDown Browser is a specialized web browser created to protect the integrity of online tests taken through learning management systems (LMS). Used by thousands of colleges and universities, it locks the testing environment so students can’t access unauthorized resources during an exam. The tool is intended for use in classrooms and proctored settings, where preventing access to external applications and materials is critical.

Supported learning platforms

Works with the major LMS providers so institutions can adopt it without extensive additional setup:

• Canvas
• Moodle
• Blackboard Learn
• Schoology
• Brightspace
• Sakai

Its integrations are designed to be straightforward, allowing instructors to enable secure testing directly within the LMS they already use.

Exam protection and limitations

LockDown Browser enforces a controlled test session to reduce opportunities for cheating. Key restrictions include:

• Blocking the ability to switch tasks or open other windows or applications
• Disabling screen captures and printing
• Preventing copy-and-paste, keyboard shortcuts, and typical task-bar access
• Restricting access to messaging, remote desktops, and other communication tools

During an assessment the browser runs full-screen and cannot be minimized; only simple navigation controls (Back, Forward, Refresh, Stop) are available. Tests configured for LockDown Browser cannot be opened in other browsers, and an exam typically cannot be exited until it has been submitted. Note that because the tool confines students to a single exam window, it may not suit assessments that legitimately require multiple open resources or reference materials.

Trial options and licensing

Institutions evaluating the software can sign up for a complimentary two-month trial that provides full functionality with supported LMS platforms. For continued campuswide deployment, LockDown Browser is licensed on an annual basis, allowing schools to adopt the product for all students and instructors under a single agreement.

Supporting fairness in online assessment

As online learning and remote testing grow, tools that reduce academic dishonesty become more important. By combining strict session controls with broad LMS compatibility, this browser aims to help colleges and universities maintain consistent, enforceable standards for online exams.