If you’ve ever used a LockDown Browser for an online exam, you know how strict it is. Many students wonder if they can use AI extensions like ChatGPT, Grammarly, or QuillBot while taking a test.
The short answer is no LockDown Browser blocks all external tools and extensions to prevent cheating. This article explains why you can’t use AI tools with it, what happens if you try, and what safe options you can use before or after your exam.
What Is a LockDown Browser?
A LockDown Browser is a secure web browser designed for online exams. It prevents students from opening new tabs, accessing apps, or using tools that could give them unfair help.
When you start a test in LockDown Browser, it:
- Disables right-click, copy, and paste.
- Blocks all Chrome or Edge extensions.
- Stops switching to other programs or tabs.
- Prevents screenshots or screen sharing.
- Closes background applications automatically.
These restrictions make the exam environment secure and stop outside interference.
Why AI Extensions Don’t Work with LockDown Browser
LockDown Browser runs in a restricted environment that ignores all browser add-ons. This means AI extensions like ChatGPT for Chrome, Grammarly, QuillBot, or Wordtune simply won’t appear while using it.
Even if those extensions are installed in your browser, LockDown Browser doesn’t load them. It blocks any external service that connects to the internet outside the test’s control.
That’s why no AI extension can assist you during an exam; they’re disabled for security reasons.
Can You Enable AI Extensions in LockDown Browser?
No, you cannot enable AI extensions in LockDown Browser. Its system automatically disables or ignores all third-party add-ons.
This includes:
- Browser extensions like Grammarly or ChatGPT.
- Desktop AI tools running in the background.
- Web-based AI apps opened in another tab.
Trying to override these restrictions can lead to violations of your school’s academic integrity rules. LockDown Browser is designed to detect and block such attempts.
What AI Tools Are Safe to Use (Before or After Exams)
While you can’t use AI tools during a test, they can be helpful for studying and preparation. You can use these before or after your exam safely:
- ChatGPT: To review concepts, generate practice questions, or summarize notes.
- Grammarly: To polish essays or assignments before submission.
- QuillBot: To reword or simplify study materials.
- Google Bard / Gemini: To research explanations or quick answers for learning.
These tools are great for practice and learning, but they must not be open during a live, monitored exam.
What Happens If You Try to Use AI Extensions During an Exam
If you try to open AI tools or browser extensions during a LockDown Browser test, the system blocks them immediately.
Here’s what can happen:
- The browser freezes or shuts down.
- The proctoring system flags the attempt for review.
- Your school might receive a report for academic misconduct.
- You could lose access to the exam or face penalties.
LockDown Browser monitors system activity, so even hidden apps can be detected.
Responsible Ways to Use AI for Learning
AI tools can be valuable study partners if used correctly. You can use them to understand material, not to cheat.
Here’s how to use AI responsibly:
- Practice questions or quizzes with ChatGPT before your test.
- Use Grammarly or QuillBot to improve writing assignments.
- Ask AI tools to explain hard topics or summarize chapters.
- Keep them closed when taking any proctored exam.
This approach helps you learn effectively and keeps your record clean.
Conclusion
You cannot use AI extensions with a LockDown Browser. The browser blocks all third-party apps, extensions, and background tools to keep exams secure.
However, you can still use AI responsibly before or after your test — for learning, reviewing, and writing help. Following the rules not only protects your grades but also maintains academic integrity.