"Unable to retrieve settings from the Respondus server"

This error indicates the Respondus Monitor start-up cannot access the Respondus servers to retrieve certain settings established by the instructor. Sometimes, you will see various error codes accompany the error, such as: 0x0002

1) The error is often caused by accessing the exam through a "reminder" entry in a toolbar or calendar. It's important for you to access the exam by first navigating to the course and then going to the appropriate test area or content area.

2) If you are sure that you are accessing the quiz following the instructions in step #1 above, the problem could be caused by security settings on your computer, ISP, or network. In most cases, the problematic settings are on the computer itself. Please do the following steps one at a time and afterwards verify if the problem persists.

a) Your computer, ISP, or network might be blocking access to the Respondus servers. Temporarily shut down all anti-virus and firewall software on the computer and try the exam again. If the problem persists, try using the computer on a different network, or using a different computer on your main network. Keep in mind that the block could be in the router itself. Bypassing the router and plugging straight into the modem may help.

b) If the error persists, reset your computer's internet options.  For Windows users, go to control panel and select "Network and Internet." Once there, click on "Internet Options".  On the "Security" tab, ensure that your settings are not higher than "Medium". On the Advanced tab, click "Reset" located under the header "Reset Internet Explorer Settings". In the window that opens, select "Delete Personal Settings" and then click on the Reset button. Doing this will impact all client browsers, not just Internet Explorer.

After resetting the internet options, restart your computer and try to access your exam again.


c) Ensure that you have the correct time and time zone set for your computer.

3) Sometimes a slow network connection can cause a timeout to occur, resulting in the error. Using a faster connection might help.