Instructional Support

Respondus Lockdown Browser

Respondus Lockdown Browser is a custom browser that integrates with D2L Brightspace quizzes to create a more secure environment for quizzes and exams. It is new for PCC for Spring 2026 and is provided to increase protection for online assessments. When using Lockdown Browser in a quiz, students will not be able to use additional screens, navigate to unapproved websites, copy & paste, print, or access other applications.

Instructor Resources
Recommendations
  • Update your Class Details Page to include the following statement in the Technology section
    • Additional Software Required
      This class uses Respondus Lockdown Browser for some exams. You can get more information on system requirements and download the software from our Lockdown Browser page.
  • Email your students before the term starts explaining that the course requires Lockdown Browser and share a link to the student resource page so they can download it before class begins.
  • At the start of every term, make sure the settings and and dates are correct after you copy your course.
  • Make the practice quiz available immediately
  • Limit the number of exams that use Lockdown Browser. Exams are stressful.
  • Include the student resource page as an allowed resource for support during the exam.
Technical Requirements

Respondus Lockdown Browser is a stand-alone web browser that includes security features to help improve exam integrity. It can be used on most operating systems.

Supported Platforms
  • Windows 10 and 11
  • MacOS 11 (Big Sur) or newer
  • Chromebook
Limitations

Lockdown Browser has been available for over a decade and some students claim to have found several ways to “defeat” its functionality, including installing on a virtual machine or simply using another device during the exam. Lockdown Browser is not intended to be a complete security solution, but rather a tool to help mitigate issues with accessing unauthorized resources, AI-enabled web browsers, and copy/pasting work during exams.

Support contacts

There is limited support provided during the pilot. Instructors and students can review the knowledge base or submit a support ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions
  • Do we have access to use Monitor proctoring?
    • No. PCC does not support the use of 3rd party or AI managed proctoring solutions.
  • Does Lockdown Browser work with Assignments or Discussions?
    • No. It only works with the quiz tool. However, you can create essay-style questions in the quiz tool for written exams.
  • Is LockDown Browser spyware?
    • No. It is a modified version of the Chromium open-source web browser. Respondus does not use any tracking tools.
  • Can I exempt some students from using it?
    • Yes. You can exclude some students from using LockDown Browser. To do so:
      • Open your Course in D2L
      • Go to: Coursework > Quizzes > Edit Quiz
      • Restrictions tab > Add Users to Special Access
      • Locate the student and select the box next to their name
      • Scroll up and check the box for LockDown Browser Not required to take this quiz
      • Click Save & Close