Proctorio Secure Companion App

Overview

Proctorio uses a free application alongside the Proctorio Secure Exam Proctor Extension to provide enhanced exam security when Advanced Security settings are enabled. The required application depends on your device:

• Windows and macOS: Proctorio Desktop (Companion) App
• Chromebook: Proctorio Mobile App

Both the extension and the applicable app must be installed when Advanced Security is required. If needed, Proctorio will prompt you to install or launch the app during the pre-checks before your exam begins.

The Desktop App conforms to Proctorio's Privacy Policy and does not collect or transmit personal data, access your personal files or folders, or permanently modify system settings.

Download the App

You can install the required app before exam day using the links below. If the app is not installed when you start your exam, Proctorio will guide you through the installation process.

App store installation is recommended because it supports automatic updates.

Launching the App

When Advanced Security is required, Proctorio displays an Advanced Security pre-check to confirm that the appropriate app is installed and ready. The steps vary depending on your device.

Windows and macOS

1. On the Advanced Security pre-check page, select Launch to open the Desktop App or Open Store to install it.
2. Once the app is connected, return to the pre-check page and select Run Now.
3. If prompted, close any listed applications or background processes to continue.

How it works:

• Windows: The Desktop App closes unauthorized applications before your exam. You may be asked to close applications or background processes manually.
• macOS: The Desktop App uses Apple's Assessment Mode to restrict access to other applications during your exam. Some applications, such as screen-capture software, may still need to be closed manually.

Chromebooks

On compatible Chromebooks, Advanced Security is provided through the Proctorio Mobile App instead of the Desktop App.

1. Open your exam in the Chrome browser with the Proctorio extension installed.
2. On the Advanced Security pre-check page, select Launch to open the Mobile App or Open Store to install it.
3. The Mobile App opens automatically. If prompted, sign in to your learning management system or assessment platform again within the app.
4. Complete the remaining pre-checks within the Mobile App to begin your exam.

During the assessment, the Mobile App restricts access to other applications and device functions.

For complete instructions for your device, see Starting Your Proctorio Exam.

Manual Installation

If you cannot install the Desktop App through the Microsoft Store or Apple App Store, use the direct download instructions below.

Manual installation is not available for Chromebooks.

macOS

1. Open the Mac Download link.
2. Open the downloaded Secure Companion App.pkg file from your browser downloads or locate it in your Downloads folder using Finder.
3. Follow the on-screen installation instructions. You may be asked to enter your device username and password.
4. Once installation is complete, you can move the installer file to the Bin.
5. Launch the Desktop App, return to the Advanced Security pre-check page, and select Run Now to continue.

Windows

1. Open the Windows Download link.
2. Open the downloaded Secure Companion App.msix file from your browser downloads or locate it in your Downloads folder using File Explorer.
3. Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
4. Launch the Desktop App, return to the Advanced Security pre-check page, and select Run Now to continue.

System Requirements

Advanced Security supports Windows, macOS, and compatible Chromebooks. The required app and supported browsers vary by platform.

Chromebooks must support Android applications through the Google Play Store.

For full hardware and software requirements, see Exam and System Requirements.

Troubleshooting

The following steps address common installation and launch issues. Additional guidance is available in Companion App Troubleshooting.

I cannot install the required app.

If your device is managed by your institution, you may not have permission to install applications.

• Windows or macOS: Try the direct download links in Manual Installation.
• Chromebook: Confirm your device supports Android applications from the Google Play Store.

If installation is restricted or your Chromebook is incompatible, contact your institution's IT department or use another compatible device.

The app won't open or isn't connecting.

1. Confirm your device meets the minimum system requirements.
2. Check for available browser, operating system, and app updates. See Checking for Updates.
3. Restart your device and try launching the exam again.

If the issue persists, start a chat with Proctorio Support.

The Desktop App is asking me to close programs I can't find or close.

Some background processes cannot be closed normally. See Companion App Troubleshooting for instructions on closing programs using Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS).

The Mobile App is asking me to sign in again on my Chromebook.

This is expected. After launching the Mobile App, you may need to sign in to your learning management system or assessment platform again to continue your exam.

For additional troubleshooting steps, see Starting Your Proctorio Exam.

FAQ