Student: Why is the LockDown Browser not working?

You will learn some of the issues that you might encounter when trying to use the Respondus LockDown Browser (LDB) and how they can be remedied.

Note that in order to run the LockDown Browser, you will need to either allow the LDB to stop all apps on your computer that can run screen sharing, audio capture or screen capture, like Screencast-o-matic, Camtasia, etc.

View the computer requirements to make sure your computer or iPad is compatible. Respondus has a list of common issues for students.

Here are some common errors you might encounter.

Expand or collapse content Invalid profile

This seems to mostly affect Chromebook users. You might see this issue if:

  • you installed the wrong version of the LDB which isn't intended specifically for Cal State Fullerton.
  • your professor did not view the LDB Dashboard within their course after having imported the quiz into said course.
  • your professor's LDB Dashboard has a "Fix it" error which the professor did not address.

Please contact your professor letting them know that they can click on the LockDown Browser Dashboard and may need to click on Fix It.

Expand or collapse content Unable to connect to Respondus Server

This issue may be due to over-aggressive anti-virus or firewall software on your computer or network.

Unable to connect error

Possible solutions:

  • Check that the time zone on your computer is accurate.
  • Allow the list of Respondus servers access by your anti-virus or firewall software.
  • Use Windows 11 PC.
  • Use a different computer.
Expand or collapse content Problem with settings for this exam
There is a problem with the settings for this exam error

This issue may be fixed by your professor clicking on the LDB Dashboard within your Canvas course. They might also need to click on the Fix It button, if it displays within the LDB Dashboard.

Please contact your professor letting them know that they can click on the LockDown Browser Dashboard and may need to click on Fix It.

Expand or collapse content The LockDown Browser does NOT have "California State University, Fullerton" as a choice.

If you are trying to take a Classic Quiz, you will be required to log into the CSUF Portal, in order to navigate to your quiz and take it. If you are attending more then one university or college, you might have previously installed the LockDown Browser for that other school. You will need to download the LockDown Browser intended for California State University, Fullerton.

Expand or collapse content Session expired

You might encounter this error based on several possibilities, such as a loss of internet connection, security alerts from an anti-virus app, other popups from various apps, Windows 10 MAC address randomization, and a full browser cache.

You can fix some of these issues yourself by clearing your web browser history and cache; turning off Mac address randomization, turning off anti-virus alerts and other app alerts, like email, weather, news, etc.

Expand or collapse content Problem installing the LDB

Follow the steps in this guide for PC or Mac installation instructions.

Expand or collapse content Trying to use Kurzweil's ReadTheWeb.

LDB has some requirements in order to use Kurzweil's ReadTheWeb. Plus, you will need to install the Kurzweil extension for LDB.

Need Assistance?

Utilize these resources learn about the Respondus LockDown Browser or open a service ticket if you have a problem.

Student Support website

Respondus Support website

Respondus Knowledgebase

Article Summary

You have now learned about several of the common issues students might experience while trying to use the Respondus LockDown Browser.