If you have been told that you will be using Respondus Lockdown Browser for an exam, you may need to find out more by visiting this FAQ for an introduction to Respondus Lockdown Browser. 

You will receive information and support before your exam, it is recommended to attend any pre-exam sessions to test the settings and troubleshoot beforehand. 

This FAQ is a guide to help if you require it, but please seek support in good time from the Library and Student IT Advice team and consult with your tutor to find solutions.

Are there any technical requirements?

To use Respondus Lockdown Browser you will need:

• a Windows PC/laptop or Mac 
• a stable internet connection (we recommend a wired connection if possible, or sitting close to your router to ensure a good signal) 
• if you are advised that you are using Respondus Monitor, you will also need a webcam and microphone. 

Can I use an iPad?

Depending on the type of exam you are sitting, your module tutors may have enabled the use of an iPad (iOS 11+ iPad) to sit your exam. This is more common for multiple choice exams where you need to select an answer, as it is more difficult to type longer answers on an iPad screen. Where possible, we would recommend using a PC or laptop for these exams.

Can I use a Chromebook?

Chromebooks are compatible with some Respondus Lockdown Browser exams. 

• If you are taking a Safe Medicate exam or an exam that involves the use of spreadsheets, you won't be able to use a Chromebook.
• However, you can use a Chromebook for multiple choice or written exams e.g. Applied Biological Sciences (ABS).

If I don't have a compatible device, can I book a PC on campus?

Yes, dependent on availability you can book a study space on campus.

How do I install Respondus Lockdown Browser?

You can install the Respondus software here. This link is specific to Leeds Beckett University. We recommend doing this well in advance of your online exam, so that you can seek technical support if you encounter any problems.

How do I test my webcam?

You can test your webcam at www.respondus.com/webcam

Guidance for error messages:

• Spinning wheel during webcam test
• Cannot detect or configure the webcam
• Webcam blocked
• Video connection timeout
• Recording failed.

In some cases the webcam - or the browser - can be blocked by your computer's 'cyber security' settings.  Anti-virus software is the most common reason for the system being blocked.  Try changing your settings to solve this problem will vary, depending on the anti-virus tools you have installed. Respondus provide guidance for all the main anti-virus tools here.  

How do I access my exam?

1. Install Respondus Lockdown Browser.
2. Open Respondus Lockdown Browser.
3. Log in to MyBeckett.
4. Open the module containing your exam link.
5. Click on the exam link to begin the exam.

Why am I being asked for a password?

If you are prompted to enter a password to take the test via a message that says "This assessment requires you to use Respondus Lockdown Browser" and a warning triangle (below), this means that you have clicked on the exam link in MyBeckett without first launching the Respondus Lockdown Browser app on your device.

If this happens, close MyBeckett then open Respondus Lockdown Browser before navigating to click on the exam link again.

You may be required to enter a password (without seeing the warning triangle message above), before completing the test, this will have been provided by your lecturer.  Please contact your lecturer if you do not the password.

How do I increase / decrease the zoom level in Respondus Lockdown Browser?

If you want to change the zoom level whilst using Respondus Lockdown Browser, you can do so via the steps described in this guide: Font size is too small

Can I use a second monitor with Respondus Lockdown Browser?

No, the software does not allow for the use of a second monitor (it is blanked out by a blue rectangle).

Will other people in my household be able to access the internet whilst I am using Respondus Lockdown Browser?

Yes, other people in the house on other devices will still be able to access the internet. Where possible, we would advise asking others in the house to limit activities that take up bandwidth for the duration of the exam, such as downloading large files or streaming video.

Can I try out a mock exam using Respondus Lockdown Browser?

Your course team may be able to provide you with access to a mock exam so that you can test your set up.

What if I experience technical difficulties during my exam? 

Your course team will advise about who you can phone for support if you encounter technical issues during the exam. Please make a note of this number. At the end of the exam, you will be able to rate your experience using the software and there is a notes box to log any issues you encounter.

Can I access previously downloaded materials on my computer during the exam?

No, Respondus Lockdown Browser will prevent you from accessing files saved on your computer whilst you are taking the exam.

I'm trying to open Respondus Lockdown Browser but it says that Chrome Remote Desktop is open, what does this mean?

Respondus LockDown Browser will not open if it detects Chrome Remote Desktop on your computer.

To remove Chrome Remote Desktop app from Chrome browser:

1. Open Google Chrome browser.
2. Type chrome://extensions into the address bar and press Enter.
3. Find Chrome Remote Desktop and click Remove.
4. A confirmation box appears, click Remove.

To remove Chrome Remote Desktop application from your computer:

Windows Operating System:

1. Click the search box at the bottom left and type Control Panel.
2. Click Programs.
3. Click Uninstall Programs.
4. Find Chrome Remote Desktop application.
5. Click Remove.

Mac Operating System:

1. Find the Chrome Remote Desktop Host Uninstaller application.
2. Launch the uninstaller and click Uninstall.

I receive a warning that "The browser can't be used in virtual machine software such as Virtual PC, VMWare and Parallels", what does this mean?

To maintain the academic integrity of your exam, you are not permitted to run Respondus LockDown Browser if a virtual machine is detected on your computer.

Anti-virus software can sometimes result in this type of error as well. Shutting down the anti-virus software temporarily while you use LockDown Browser may help.