Lockdown Browser blocks almost all AI extensions by design
Lockdown Browser is a restricted testing environment built to prevent cheating during online exams. It disables most browser extensions — including AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, and Grammarly — while the browser is active. This is intentional. The software locks down your machine to stop you from accessing outside information, communication tools, or writing information during a test.
If you try to use an AI extension while Lockdown Browser is running, the extension either will not load or will be blocked from functioning. You cannot work around this by installing the extension after Lockdown Browser starts, because the browser controls what runs on your system during a test session.
The one exception is extensions that your instructor or testing administrator has explicitly whitelisted — but this is rare and only happens when the test itself is designed to allow specific tools. You would know about this before the test begins.
Key Takeaways
- Lockdown Browser disables nearly all extensions, including every major AI tool, while an exam is active.
- This restriction is built into the software and cannot be bypassed by uninstalling and reinstalling extensions.
- Your instructor can whitelist specific extensions before the test, but you will be told this in advance if it applies to your exam.
- You can use AI extensions normally on your computer outside of Lockdown Browser sessions.
- Attempting to circumvent these restrictions violates most schools' academic integrity policies and can result in serious consequences.
Why Lockdown Browser blocks extensions in the first place
Lockdown Browser was created to maintain test security in online learning environments. When you take an exam through this software, it monitors your screen, disables your keyboard shortcuts, blocks right-click menus, and prevents you from opening other applications or browser tabs. Extensions are blocked because they could give you access to information, writing tools, or communication that would constitute cheating.
An AI writing extension like Grammarly or a code-completion tool like GitHub Copilot would let you generate answers or improve your work in real time. A research extension or search tool would let you look up information you are supposed to know. Even seemingly harmless extensions can create security gaps. The software takes a blanket approach: if it is not essential to the test itself, it does not run.
This applies equally to all extensions. There is no category of AI tool that Lockdown Browser treats differently. Whether you are using a large language model, a summarization tool, or a translation extension, the result is the same — it will not function during the test.
What happens if you try to use an AI extension during a Lockdown Browser exam
If you have an AI extension installed and Lockdown Browser is running, the extension will straightforward not work. You may see it in your browser toolbar, but clicking it will do nothing, or you will get a message saying the extension is disabled. The extension cannot access web services, cannot process your input, and cannot return results.
If you try to access an AI tool through a website instead — for example, by navigating to ChatGPT.com in a new tab — Lockdown Browser will block the navigation. The browser prevents you from opening new tabs or windows during a test session, so you cannot reach external websites or services.
Attempting to disable Lockdown Browser, restart your computer, or use a different browser to access the test will trigger a flag in the system. Most testing platforms log these attempts and report them to your instructor. This can result in a failed exam, academic integrity violation, or other disciplinary action depending on your school's policies.
How to use AI extensions outside of Lockdown Browser
Outside of a test session, your computer works normally. You can install, enable, and use any AI extension you want in your regular browser. Lockdown Browser only activates when you launch it to take an exam, and it only restricts your system while the test is running.
Once you close Lockdown Browser and return to your normal browser, all your extensions are available again. You can use Grammarly to check your essay, ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas, or any other tool without restriction. The limitation only applies during the actual exam window.
This means you can use AI tools to study, prepare, and draft work before you take a test — just not during the test itself. If your instructor allows you to use notes or references during an exam, those would need to be prepared without AI information during the test, but you can create them beforehand using whatever tools you want.
When an instructor might whitelist an extension
In rare cases, an instructor or testing administrator can configure Lockdown Browser to allow specific extensions during an exam. This happens when the test is designed to use a particular tool — for example, a math class might whitelist a graphing calculator extension, or a coding class might allow access to documentation.
If your exam allows any extensions, your instructor will tell you this before the test date. You will receive clear instructions about which extensions are permitted and how to make sure they are installed and working. You do not need to request this yourself or try to negotiate it — the decision is made by the instructor or institution, and the configuration is set up on their end.
Do not assume an extension is whitelisted just because you think it would be helpful. Only use extensions that your instructor has explicitly approved in writing.
Alternatives if you need AI help with your coursework
If you want to use AI tools to help you learn the material before a test, talk to your instructor about what is allowed. Many schools permit students to use AI for brainstorming, outlining, and studying — just not during the actual exam. Your instructor can clarify what counts as appropriate use in your class.
Some courses build AI tools into the curriculum intentionally. If your class uses ChatGPT, Claude, or another tool as part of the lesson, your instructor will integrate it into the course design and tell you how to use it. This is different from sneaking a tool into an exam.
If you struggle with writing, test anxiety, or understanding the material, reach out to your school's tutoring center, writing center, or disability services. These resources can provide legitimate support without putting your academic standing at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an extension after Lockdown Browser closes?
Yes, you can install extensions anytime outside of a Lockdown Browser session. But if you are asking because you forgot to install something before a test, it is too late — you cannot install it during the exam. Plan ahead and set up your extensions before you launch Lockdown Browser.
What if I disable Lockdown Browser and use a different browser for the test?
Do not do this. Your school's testing platform is configured to work only with Lockdown Browser. If you try to access the exam through a different browser, it will either not load or will be flagged as a security violation. This will be reported to your instructor and can result in academic consequences.
Can my instructor see which extensions I have installed?
Lockdown Browser logs system activity during a test, including attempts to access extensions or other applications. Your instructor can see if you tried to use tools outside the exam environment. They cannot see your extensions when Lockdown Browser is not running, but they can see suspicious activity during the test.
Is using an AI extension during a Lockdown Browser exam considered cheating?
Yes. Using any tool to generate answers, look up information, or improve your work during an exam violates academic integrity policies at virtually every school. The consequences range from a failing grade on the exam to suspension or expulsion, depending on your institution's policies.
Can I use voice-to-text or accessibility extensions during a Lockdown Browser exam?
Accessibility extensions may be whitelisted if you have documented accommodations through your school's disability services office. You would need to request this in advance and have it approved by your instructor or testing administrator. Standard voice-to-text or productivity extensions are not permitted.