Known Issue: Respondus LockDown Browser (Windows) - Passkey Authentication Workaround

Some students with a Microsoft Passkey configured on their SIUE account may be unable to sign in to Respondus LockDown Browser on Windows devices. This article explains the issue and provides a temporary workaround for Windows 11 users until a permanent solution is available.

Some students who have a Microsoft Passkey configured on their SIUE account may be unable to authenticate when using Respondus LockDown Browser on Windows devices. Testing indicates the issue is related to how Respondus LockDown Browser interacts with Passkey authentication methods. Even when other authentication methods are available, users may experience one or more of the following issues:

  • The sign in page continuously spins and does not complete authentication.
  • The sign in process unexpectedly requests a physical security key.
  • The authentication process fails or becomes unresponsive.

At this time, the issue appears to primarily affect Windows users.

Workaround for Windows 11

Until a permanent fix is available, Windows users can temporarily disable Passkey access on their device before launching LockDown Browser:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Privacy & Security.
  3. Select Passkeys.
  4. Turn Passkey access off.
  5. Launch LockDown Browser and complete your exam.
  6. After finishing the exam, return to Settings > Privacy & Security > Passkeys and re-enable Passkey access.

Important Notes

  • This workaround should only be used while taking an exam in Respondus LockDown Browser.
  • Re-enabling Passkey access after the exam is strongly recommended so you can continue using Passkeys for normal account authentication.
  • If you continue to experience authentication issues after following these steps, contact the ITS Help Desk for assistance.

Additional Information

SIUE Information Technology Services is aware of this issue and continues to monitor for updates or a permanent resolution. When Respondus or Microsoft provide a fix, this article will be updated accordingly.

Need Additional Support?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the ITS Help Desk:

This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!


Keywords:
Respondus, LockDown Browser, Passkey, Windows 11, authentication, sign in, error, spinning, security key, Microsoft Passkey, SIUE 
Doc ID:
164499
Owned by:
Center I. in Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Created:
2026-09-29
Updated:
2026-09-29
Sites:
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville