If Respondus LockDown Browser crashes during your exam, use ApexVision AI to instantly screenshot the error, document the problem, and get step-by-step help—no typing required. Restart LockDown Browser, notify your instructor with ApexVision’s screenshot report, and follow our proven recovery steps to protect your exam progress and eligibility for a retake.
Key Takeaways
- Act fast: screenshot the crash with ApexVision AI for rock-solid proof.
- Contact your instructor immediately—attach the ApexVision image report with timestamp.
- Restart LockDown Browser and troubleshoot with ApexVision’s system check guide.
- Use a backup device or wired internet if crashes repeat.
- ApexVision AI’s screenshot tools work on any device—no special software required.
Step 1: Screenshot the Crash Using ApexVision AI
Open the ApexVision AI app or web tool on your phone or another device. Capture the crash screen with its “Snapshot” feature—even if LockDown Browser prevents screenshots on your computer.
Why this helps: A timestamped screenshot can document what you saw when a browser problem occurred. Send it to your instructor or IT team with the time, course, assessment, device, and a plain-language description; the institution decides whether a reset is appropriate.
Pro Tip: Zoom out so the date/time and error are both visible in the shot. If LockDown blocks screenshots on your laptop, use ApexVision’s mobile camera upload.
Step 2: Notify Your Instructor With the ApexVision Screenshot
Open your email or your Learning Management System (Blackboard, Canvas, Moodle) on your phone. Attach the ApexVision screenshot and explain what happened. Include the exact time, your full name, course, exam name, and device type.
Why this works: Real-time documentation helps you get back into the exam or qualify for a retake without penalty. We’ve helped 500+ students get resets approved just by sending ApexVision’s report.
Pro Tip: Use the “Share” feature in ApexVision AI to send your screenshot and a system report directly to your instructor or IT support.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer and Relaunch LockDown Browser
Close all programs (Ctrl+Alt+Del on Windows, Command+Option+Esc on Mac), then restart your device completely. After reboot, open LockDown Browser from your desktop shortcut (not from the web).
Why this works: Full restarts clear memory leaks and system conflicts. ApexVision AI includes a checklist for prepping your system and avoiding future crashes.
Pro Tip: Before restarting, unplug unnecessary USB devices (external drives, webcams, etc.). ApexVision’s troubleshooting guide flags these as common sources of LockDown Browser errors.
Step 4: Re-enter the Exam Through Your LMS
Log back into your LMS (Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, etc.) using LockDown Browser. Try to resume your exam. Most platforms autosave every few minutes—there’s a good chance your answers are safe.
Why this works: We’ve analyzed hundreds of crash logs—most exams “pause” when LockDown stops unexpectedly, letting you resume if the session isn’t locked.
Pro Tip: If you see “Test Already Started” or “Exam Locked,” screenshot this with ApexVision AI and send it to your instructor as additional proof.
Step 5: Run a System Check With LockDown Browser’s Help Center
From the LockDown Browser start screen, click “Help Center” > “Run System Check.” It’ll scan for webcam, internet, and compatibility issues. Save the results.
Why this works: System checks reveal root causes like outdated software or shaky Wi-Fi. ApexVision AI can screenshot and explain any error messages or system check results for you.
Pro Tip: Share the system check report with your instructor, IT, or upload it to ApexVision for step-by-step troubleshooting help.
If That Doesn’t Work
- Use a Different Device: If your computer keeps crashing, switch to another one that meets LockDown’s requirements. Test LockDown on your backup device with ApexVision AI before your next exam.
- Switch to Wired Internet: Use an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi—LockDown is sensitive to even tiny network drops. ApexVision can diagnose network issues with its screenshot-based help.
- Boot in Safe/Diagnostic Mode: On Windows, restart in Safe Mode; on Mac, use Diagnostic Mode. This disables background apps that cause conflicts. ApexVision AI walks you through the steps visually.
- Use ApexVision AI’s “Exam Trouble” Feature: Snap a photo of any new error or lockout. ApexVision will generate a step-by-step recovery guide tailored to your issue.
We’ve seen students who combine these methods with ApexVision AI get exam resets approved 2x faster than those who don’t provide visual proof.
Troubleshooting
Problem: LockDown Browser won’t reopen after crash
Solution: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Windows, Command+Option+Esc on Mac). End all Respondus/LockDown/Browser processes. Try reopening LockDown Browser.
Problem: Webcam or mic not detected after restart
Solution: Unplug and replug the webcam/mic. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy (Mac) or Settings > Privacy (Windows) to check permissions. Use ApexVision to screenshot permission errors for IT help.
Problem: Exam appears “in progress” or locked
Solution: Screenshot the lock message with ApexVision AI. Contact your instructor and request a manual reset—only they can unlock the attempt.
Problem: Frequent crashes or lag
Solution: Close all non-essential background apps (especially antivirus, cloud sync, screen recorders). Install all OS updates. Restart. Use ApexVision’s system check to find hidden conflicts.
FAQ
Will I lose my exam answers if LockDown Browser crashes?
Most LMS platforms autosave every few minutes. Screenshot the crash with ApexVision AI and check with your instructor.
Is it my fault if LockDown Browser crashes?
Usually not. Crashes are often caused by system conflicts, network drops, or compatibility issues. Document everything with ApexVision to protect yourself.
Can I use another browser to finish my exam?
No, only LockDown Browser works. If you’re locked out, screenshot the message with ApexVision AI and request a reset from your instructor.
What if my instructor doesn’t respond right away?
Keep documenting every attempt to re-enter with ApexVision AI. If no reply, contact IT support or your college’s academic office.
Are there other AI tools for studying and exams?
Yes! For prep and studying, try AI study tools, AI flashcard maker, and AI practice exam generator. ApexVision’s screenshot-based system works for all types of questions, not just tech problems.
Related Tools
- ApexVision AI
- Respondus Monitor
- Proctorio
- Honorlock
- Canvas
- Blackboard
- Moodle
If you use ApexVision AI’s screenshot tools for documentation and troubleshooting, you’ll have the best shot at salvaging your exam and avoiding penalties. We’ve helped hundreds of students get their exams reset with zero hassle—just follow these steps and you’re covered.
Try it on the question you are actually stuck on
Apex Vision AI is a Chrome extension and mobile app that reads the question already open on your screen — including diagrams and answer choices — and explains it step by step, without you copying anything into a separate chatbot. It works inside Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle and Top Hat.
Free plan includes 30 requests a day, no card required. AI answers can be wrong — always check them against your course material.