ProctorU system requirements
ProctorU runs a live or recorded session over your browser, so the bar is higher than an ordinary online test. Check each of these before booking your slot.
Computer & operating system
- Windows 10/11 or macOS 11 or newer — Chromebooks, tablets and phones are not supported for most ProctorU sessions.
- At least 4 GB RAM free and 1 GB of free disk space so the proctoring session does not stall mid-exam.
- An up-to-date Chrome or Firefox browser with the ProctorU extension installed (or the Guardian Browser, if your test sponsor requires it).
- Administrator rights on the machine — work or school laptops often block the extension or screen-share prompt.
Network & bandwidth
- Minimum 1 Mbps up / 1 Mbps down, but aim for 5 Mbps or more — ProctorU streams your screen and webcam simultaneously.
- Use a wired ethernet connection where possible; Wi-Fi drops are the single most common cause of a terminated session.
- Avoid VPNs, corporate proxies and campus networks that block WebRTC — they trigger connection errors at check-in.
- Ask others on the network to pause streaming or large downloads during your exam window.
Webcam, mic & display
- A webcam you can physically pick up and rotate for the 360° room scan — a built-in laptop camera means moving the whole laptop.
- A working microphone; headsets and earbuds are usually not permitted, so use the built-in mic.
- A single monitor. Disconnect second screens, TVs and projectors before check-in or you will be asked to unplug them on camera.
- Screen resolution of at least 1024×768 and display scaling at 100% so the exam window renders correctly.
ProctorU exam setup, step by step
- 1
Run the equipment check 24–48 hours early
ProctorU's automated equipment check tests your camera, mic, speakers, browser and bandwidth. Run it on the exact machine, browser profile and network you will use on exam day — a pass on your phone's hotspot means nothing if you sit the exam on campus Wi-Fi.
- 2
Clear and photograph your room
Remove notes, sticky pads, books, second devices, smart speakers and anything on the walls within camera range. A clean desk with only your computer, an approved whiteboard and a clear drink container avoids most manual review flags.
- 3
Prepare identification
Have a government-issued photo ID ready. The proctor will ask you to hold it up to the camera; glare from overhead lights is a common reason check-in stalls, so test the angle in advance.
- 4
Close everything else
Shut down every application except the browser — messaging apps, cloud sync clients, screen recorders, virtual camera software and remote desktop tools all raise flags. Reboot the machine 15 minutes before your slot for a clean process list.
- 5
Log in 15 minutes before your slot
Check-in itself takes 10–15 minutes and eats into your exam time on some sponsors. Arriving early leaves room for a retry if the extension needs reinstalling.
- 6
Complete the room scan calmly
Pan slowly: desk surface, under the desk, all four walls, ceiling and the doorway. Rushing means the proctor asks you to repeat it, which is where most anxiety spikes.
Common ProctorU problems and how to fix them
Exam-day checklist
- Equipment check passed on the exam-day machine and network
- Browser updated and ProctorU extension enabled
- Second monitors disconnected
- Desk and walls cleared, door closed, room quiet
- Photo ID within reach
- All apps closed and machine rebooted
- Power adapter plugged in
- Logged in 15 minutes early
Still not confident about your ProctorU session?
Our specialists work with ProctorU sessions every day and can walk your setup with you before exam day — or handle the exam for you end to end.
See also our full list of supported proctoring platforms.