Respondus LockDown Browser review
A broad-platform exam browser for institutions using major LMS platforms.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Respondus LockDown Browser is a client application that restricts student devices during online assessments. It is designed for K-12 schools, districts, colleges, universities, and other education providers delivering exams through supported learning management systems. During an assessment, it can block access to other applications and URLs, prevent printing and copy-and-paste, block screen-capture programs, and launch automatically when a supported exam begins. Native support covers Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and iPad.
Its ecosystem coverage is a central strength. Respondus LockDown Browser integrates with Blackboard Learn, Brightspace, Canvas, Moodle, Sakai, and Schoology, using learning management system integration for exam delivery. Instructors can also use live proctoring with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. That combination suits institutions that need a lockdown browser across multiple device types while retaining established LMS and meeting-platform workflows. Organizations centered on unsupported platforms or assessments that must run offline should look elsewhere.
The published plan structure is aimed at K-12 site licenses and uses student-count tiers, from 1 to 2,000 students through 25,001 to 30,000 students. Each listed tier includes a K-12 site license. A 60-day institutional pilot is available, but the product does not have a permanent free plan. This makes it more appropriate for institutions planning an ongoing paid deployment than for small teams seeking a no-cost exam browser. Choose Respondus LockDown Browser when broad LMS compatibility, device coverage, and controls against common exam-session workarounds matter most.
Respondus LockDown Browser pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Blocks apps, websites, printing, copying, and screen capture during exams
- Supports Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and iPad
- Integrates with major LMS platforms and live-proctoring tools
- Where it doesn't
- No permanent free plan
- Offline assessments are not supported
- Higher-education pricing may differ from K-12 site-license tiers
Respondus LockDown Browser fact sheet, pricing and score →
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