Honorlock works primarily through the Honorlock browser extension that can be installed on Google Chrome. All Honorlock-enabled exams require the use of the Honorlock Browser extension. However, you may also be asked to download an Honorlock desktop application to aid in the security of the exam. Honorlock is active when you log in to the exam and is inactive when you log out, but you can still access support outside of an Honorlock enabled exam.
During the exam, the Honorlock browser-extension uses your webcam, microphone and screen capturing tools to capture your movements and sends the data to your instructor for review.
The Honorlock desktop application blocks other applications from running in the background on your computer, but it can be set to allow use of certain applications (for example, Excel or Word) during an exam. Honorlock will flag activity that your instructor has indicated is not allowed during the exam. Your instructor will then be able to review the video and data to decide if any action is necessary.
You may want to set up a separate Chrome profile on your Chrome browser just for exam-taking purposes. Using a separate profile for exams keeps the browser clear of extensions that could interfere with Honorlock. It also ensures that Honorlock doesn’t interfere with extensions and tools you may rely on outside of the exam.
What You'll Need
- A computer (Windows/Mac computer or laptop)—You cannot take exams from mobile devices (e.g., iPhone, iPad, Android device).
- Webcam (internal or external)
- Microphone (internal or external)
- A strong internet connection
- BuckID — if your instructor requires the identity verification step for your exam, we recommend you use your BuckID, not your driver's license or other photo ID.
- Google Chrome
- Honorlock extension
- Honorlock computer application –if your instructor has enabled the Enhanced Desktop Security feature
- Your cell phone – if your instructor has enabled the Workspace Photo Scan environment scanner option
See Honorlock’s Minimum System Requirements for more information.
Honorlock walks you through the process of authenticating your system and confirming your identity as you begin the exam, so you do not need to refer to any of these guides while you're using Honorlock. Refer to the How to Use Honorlock for Test Takers guide.
Before taking an Honorlock-enabled exam, you can test your equipment using the HonorPrep Guided Tour tool, which walks you through the entire authentication process including system checks and the verification process, outside of an exam setting.
Install Google Chrome
If not already installed, please download Google Chrome.
Install the Honorlock extension
Honorlock requires a browser extension to be added to your Chrome browser to start an Honorlock-enabled exam. You only need to do this once.
Honorlock will not work if you have the Proctorio extension enabled on your browser. You will need to disable or remove it from your browser before the Honorlock extension is available.
- Navigate to the Honorlock tab in your course or go to honorlock.com/install.
- Agree to Honorlock’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, and then click to add the extension.
- Click Add to Chrome and confirm your selection
Honorlock is now enabled on your browser.
The Honorlock extension should update automatically in Chrome. If this does not occur, users should:
- Then reinstall the extension. Download the extension.
How do I know if I need to update the extension?
When you attempt to take an exam with an out-of-date extension, you may receive an error message when you try to begin the exam. Or you may see an Honorlock message asking you to download the extension or be asked for an Access Code. You will then need to reinstall the Honorlock extension before proceeding.
Install the Honorlock Desktop application
If your instructor has enabled the Enhanced Desktop Security option, you will be asked to also download the Honorlock desktop application onto your device. This application works in the background during exams to block applications such as Grammarly, Zoom or other applications. It also gives instructors the ability to allow specific applications like Excel or Word to be used during the exam.
You will be prompted to install and launch the app during the Honorlock authentication process. However, if you want to download it prior you can do so.
Once you’ve downloaded and launched the app, it will request that you close your Chrome browser so that a stripped-down version of Chrome that has disabled all extensions and AI tools by default can be used for the exam. During the exam, you will see a small pop-up window indicating that the app is running. At times you may see the message in the window change indicating that it blocked an application from impacting your exam session. Be sure to shut down your browser at the end of the exam to reset it to your normal browser functionality.
Note: If you use a Chromebook, you can still take exams with the Enhanced Desktop Security option enabled. The system will bypass the need for you to download the app. However, please note that you will not be able to access any apps your instructor allows during the exam. If apps are allowed, you may want to use a different device or discuss alternatives with your instructor.
Get Help
Honorlock provides 24/7 help via chat as well as Knowledge Base guides that can help you troubleshoot issues.
To access the chat outside an exam:
- Find help through the Honorlock tab in your Carmen course navigation. This offers access to chat, Honorlock Knowledge Base guides, and other resources including HonorPrep, a tutorial designed to guide test takers through the Honorlock system requirement and authentication.
- Or, go to Honorlock's support site.
To access the chat during an exam:
- Use the chat icon on the bottom right.
For additional assistance with Honorlock, contact the Learning Systems support team.