Respondus LockDown Browser

Redmond, Washington, USA

What it is

Respondus LockDown Browser is a paid browser for online assessments that restricts certain device actions while an assessment is in progress. It blocks switching between apps, copying, printing, and screen capture. Institutions can connect it to a learning management system through LTI. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and iPadOS; listed platform availability also includes iOS. Plans are organized by LMS student count, beginning with 1 to 2,000 students and extending through bands up to 35,001 to 40,000, plus an option for more than 40,000 students. A 60-day trial is available, but there is no free plan. LockDown Browser does not offer offline assessment mode. Respondus was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, USA. The product is intended for institutions seeking to limit common device actions during online assessments, with the plan bands based on LMS student totals.

For and against

For

Blocks app switching during assessments
Blocks copying, printing, and screen capture
Supports LMS integration through LTI
60-day trial available

Against

No free plan
Offline assessment mode is not available

The verdict

LockDown Browser focuses on restricting selected device actions during online assessments and offers LTI integration. Institutions should consider its platform support, lack of offline mode, and student-count plan structure.

Who it suits

LockDown Browser may suit schools and other institutions that want to restrict app switching, copying, printing, and screen capture during online assessments. Its plans are grouped by LMS student count and it integrates through LTI.