In order to provide a no-cost proctoring service for students, Valdosta State University has obtained a campus-wide license for Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB) and Monitor. 

What is Respondus LockDown Browser?

Respondus LockDown Browser (RLBD) is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within BlazeVIEW. When students use LockDown Browser to access an exam, they are unable to print, copy, visit other websites, or access other applications. Once an assessment is started, students are locked into it until the assessment is submitted for grading.

RLDB functions include:

  • Assessments are displayed full-screen and cannot be minimized.
  • Assessments cannot be exited until submitted by users for grading.
  • Task switching or access to other applications is prevented.
  • Print, Print Screen and capturing functions are disabled.
  • Copying and pasting anything to and from an assessment is prohibited.
  • Screen capture, messaging, screen-sharing, virtual machine, and network monitoring applications are blocked from running.
  • Right-click menu options and function keys are disabled.
  • Browser menu and toolbar options are disabled, except for Back, Forward, Refresh and Stop.
What is Respondus Monitor?

Respondus Monitor is a fully automated proctoring solution that enables students to take online exams at any time of the day or night without pre-scheduling. It is an add-on to Respondus Lockdown Browser, so students do not have to download any additional software to take monitored exams. Respondus Monitor offers the following benefits for instructors:

  • Serves as a deterrent to students using unauthorized testing aids
  • Records both audio and video, allowing instructors to monitor student behavior or use it for oral exams
  • Instructors can request students to check ID and their surroundings.
  • Instructors can view results of exam sessions within BlazeVIEW, and do not have to log into a separate website
  • Respondus provides thumbnails taken at random intervals, enabling instructors to scan for any suspicious behavior quickly
  • If the instructor spots suspicious behavior, they can watch the video and flag any suspicious activity.
  • Videos are available to instructors for at least a year.

How Does Respondus Monitor Work?

Students use an internal or external webcam to record themselves during an exam. A "startup sequence" guides them through requirements selected by the instructor, such as showing identification or making a short video of the exam environment. Only the instructor can review video recordings and the results of the proctoring session.

Powerful analytics are used to detect suspicious behaviors during an exam session. Video segments with potential exam violations are flagged for the instructor, with an overall risk level assigned to the exam session.

After a student has taken an exam, instructors can review sessions to check for any suspect behavior.

Note: Respondus Monitor creates a video for the instructor to review at a later time. It is not a remote live proctoring program.

What are the Technical Requirements for Using Respondus Monitor?

LockDown Browser is an application students must download and install on a computing device. Respondus Monitor is a web-based service that enhances the LockDown Browser product. Students must have the appropriate technology to use Respondus Monitor. System requirements include:

Operating System
  • Windows: 10* and 11.
    *Windows 10S is not a compatible operating system, nor can LockDown Browser be obtained via the Windows App Store.
  • Mac: macOS 10.12 to 12.0+
  • iOS: 11.0+ (iPad only). Must have a compatible LMS integration.
  • ChromeOS: Chromebooks are not supported at VSU
Hard Disk Space
  • Windows: 200 MB of free hard disk space
  • Mac: 200 MB of free hard disk space
Memory
  • Windows: 2 GB RAM (A minimum 4GB of available RAM is necessary when using LockDown Browser to take an exam that also uses a webcam.)
  • Mac: 2 GB RAM (A minimum 4GB of available RAM is necessary when using LockDown Browser to take an exam that also uses a webcam.)

A broadband internet connection

Web camera (internal or external) & microphone are required for Respondus Monitor

NOTE: Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor will not work on Chromebooks or other non-Windows/Mac devices.

Faculty Resources

  • Additional information about Respondus LockDown Browser can be found at
  • Additional information about Respondus Monitor can be found at .  
  • Watch the short video describing and how to set up an exam to use Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor: 

Student Resources

  • Watch the short student video describing Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor: