What Respondus LockDown Browser does with your webcam

Respondus LockDown Browser is a test-taking process that locks down your computer during an exam. When your instructor enables webcam monitoring, the browser uses your computer's camera to record video of you and your testing environment throughout the exam. The software stores this recording locally on your machine, and your school can review it after the test ends.

The webcam does not stream live to your instructor or proctor while you test. Instead, it captures continuous video that becomes part of your exam file. Your institution decides whether to watch the recording, and they set the rules about what they are looking for — typically whether you leave the room, look away from the screen, or have other people present.

Key Takeaways

  • Respondus LockDown Browser records video from your webcam during the entire exam if your instructor has enabled this feature.
  • The video is saved to your computer and uploaded to your school's system after the test, not streamed live to a proctor.
  • Your school controls what happens with the recording and what behavior they review it for.
  • You need a working webcam and adequate lighting in your testing space for the software to record usable video.
  • The browser will not let you start the exam if your webcam is not detected or if you deny permission to use it.

How the webcam recording process works

When you open Respondus LockDown Browser to take a proctored exam, the software checks whether your webcam is available and asks for permission to use it. If your instructor has webcam monitoring turned on, you cannot begin the exam without allowing access. The browser then starts recording video from your camera as soon as the test begins.

The recording captures both your face and whatever is visible behind you or to the sides of your screen. The software does not pause recording if you minimize the browser or look away — it records continuously for the entire duration of the exam. Once you submit your answers and exit the test, the video file is saved to your computer and typically uploaded automatically to your school's learning management system (such as Canvas, Blackboard, or D2L) along with your exam responses.

What your school can see in the recording

The video shows your face, your upper body, and your when ready surroundings. Your instructor or a designated proctor can review the recording to check whether you were the person taking the exam, whether anyone else was in the room with you, whether you were looking at unauthorized materials, or whether you left your testing space during the exam.

The recording does not capture your computer screen or your exam answers directly — that information comes from the test responses you submitted. The video is purely a record of your behavior and environment. Some schools use automated analysis tools to flag suspicious activity, but most institutions have a person review the video only if they have a specific concern about your exam.

Technical requirements for webcam recording

Your computer must have a built-in or external webcam that is compatible with Respondus LockDown Browser. Most modern laptops have built-in cameras, and external USB webcams work as well. The browser supports Windows and Mac computers; Chromebooks and tablets are not compatible with LockDown Browser.

You also need adequate lighting in your testing space. If the room is too dark, the video will be too dim for your school to see you clearly, which may raise questions about whether the recording is usable. A desk lamp or window light pointed at your face (not behind you) usually provides enough illumination. You should test your webcam and lighting before exam day by opening the browser and checking the camera preview.

What happens if your webcam is not working

Respondus LockDown Browser will not allow you to start an exam if your webcam is not detected or if you deny permission to use it. The browser displays an error message and prevents you from proceeding. This is a hard requirement when your instructor has enabled webcam monitoring — there is no way to bypass it.

If your webcam is broken or not working on exam day, contact your instructor or your school's testing center when ready. Do not wait until the last minute. Your school may allow you to reschedule the exam, use a different computer with a working camera, or in some cases provide an alternative testing arrangement. The sooner you report the problem, the more options you will have.

Privacy and data storage concerns

The video recording is stored on your computer first, then uploaded to your school's servers. Your institution controls who can access the recording and how long it is kept. Most schools have policies about data retention — some delete recordings after a set period, others keep them indefinitely. You can ask your school's testing center or IT department what their policy is.

The recording is considered part of your academic record and is typically protected by the same privacy rules as your exam answers and grades. However, the specific protections vary by school and by state. If you have concerns about privacy or how your recording will be used, ask your instructor or testing center before you take the exam.

Troubleshooting common webcam issues

If Respondus LockDown Browser cannot find your webcam, first check that the camera is physically connected (if external) and that no other process is using it. Close any video conferencing software, messaging apps, or other programs that might have claimed the camera. Then restart the browser and try again.

On Windows, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera and make sure Respondus LockDown Browser is listed and enabled. On Mac, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Camera and check that the browser has permission. If the camera still is not detected, restart your computer. If you are using an external webcam, try a different USB port. If none of these steps work, you will need to use a different computer or contact your school's IT support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my instructor watch me in real time while I take the exam?

No. Respondus LockDown Browser records video to your computer, not to a live stream. Your instructor can only watch the recording after you finish the exam. Some schools use a separate live proctoring service in addition to LockDown Browser, but that is a different tool.

What if someone else is in the room with me during the exam?

The webcam will record them. Your school's policy determines whether having another person present is allowed. Some schools permit family members or roommates as long as they stay out of the camera view; others require you to be completely alone. Check your exam instructions or ask your instructor before test day.

Can I cover my webcam or turn it off during the exam?

No. Respondus LockDown Browser will detect if the camera is blocked or disabled and will pause or end the exam. The software is designed to prevent you from disabling the camera once the test has started.

How long does the video file take to upload after I finish the exam?

Upload time depends on your internet connection and the length of the exam. Most recordings upload within a few minutes to an hour after you submit your exam. If your connection is slow or drops, the upload may take longer or fail. The browser will usually retry automatically.

Can I request that my recording be deleted?

That depends on your school's policy. Some institutions will delete recordings after a certain period or upon request, while others keep them as part of your permanent academic record. Contact your testing center or registrar to find out what your school's retention policy is.