What to Do When ExamSoft Upload Fails

An ExamSoft upload failure can be incredibly stressful. This guide provides immediate steps to resolve upload errors and ensure your exam is submitted successfully.

Immediate Steps (First 5 Minutes)

When you see "Upload Failed" or similar error messages, take these actions immediately:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Don't Close ExamSoft

• Keep Examplify open - don't force quit
• Your exam is saved locally on your device
• You won't lose your work
• Take a deep breath and follow this guide

Step 2: Check Internet Connection

Quick Tests:

1. Open a web browser and visit google.com
2. If it loads, your internet works
3. Check WiFi icon - ensure you're connected
4. Try a speed test at fast.com (need 5+ Mbps upload)

If No Internet:

• Reconnect to WiFi network
• Restart your router (unplug 30 seconds, plug back in)
• Switch to mobile hotspot if available
• Use ethernet cable if possible

Step 3: Screenshot the Error Message

• Take a photo or screenshot of any error messages
• Note the exact time the error occurred
• You'll need this for IT support if needed

Common Error Messages and Quick Fixes

Error: "Upload Failed - Network Error"

Cause: Internet connection lost during upload

Quick Fix:

1. Check internet connection (see Step 2 above)
2. Wait 2-3 minutes for connection to stabilize
3. Click "Retry Upload" button in ExamSoft
4. If retry button missing, go to File → Upload Exam

Error: "Server Not Responding"

Cause: ExamSoft servers overloaded or temporarily down

Quick Fix:

1. Wait 5-10 minutes (peak traffic usually clears)
2. Try uploading again
3. If still failing, try during off-peak hours
4. Contact your institution's IT support immediately

Error: "File Corrupted or Unreadable"

Cause: Exam file may be damaged

Quick Fix:

1. Check ExamSoft backup folder for alternate version
2. Try uploading backup file
3. If no backup, contact IT support ASAP
4. Consider using ExamSoft Decryptor for recovery

Error: "Authentication Failed"

Cause: Login credentials expired or incorrect

Quick Fix:

1. Log out of ExamSoft completely
2. Close the application
3. Reopen and log back in
4. Verify username and password are correct
5. Try uploading again

Error: "Exam Already Submitted"

Cause: Previous upload may have succeeded without confirmation

Quick Fix:

1. Check your ExamSoft portal online
2. Look for exam in submitted exams list
3. If there, you're done - exam was received
4. If not there, contact IT support for verification

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

Method 1: Manual File Upload

If automatic upload keeps failing, try manual upload:

1. Open ExamSoft application
2. Go to File → Manage Exams
3. Locate your exam file (look for recent date/time)
4. Right-click → Select "Upload to Server"
5. Monitor upload progress carefully

Method 2: Switch Networks

Your current network might have issues:

1. WiFi to Ethernet: Use wired connection for stability
2. Switch WiFi Networks: Try different network if available
3. Mobile Hotspot: Use phone's internet temporarily
4. Different Location: Move to area with better signal

Method 3: Firewall/Antivirus Check

Security software might be blocking upload:

1. Temporarily disable antivirus software
2. Check Windows Firewall or Mac Firewall settings
3. Add ExamSoft to firewall exceptions
4. Try upload again
5. Re-enable security software after upload succeeds

Method 4: Clear Cache and Retry

Corrupted cache can cause upload failures:

1. Close ExamSoft completely
2. Delete ExamSoft cache folder:
   • Windows: C:\Users\[Username]\AppData\Local\ExamSoft\Cache
   • Mac: ~/Library/Caches/ExamSoft
3. Restart ExamSoft
4. Try uploading again

Finding Your Exam File Locally

If you need to manually locate your exam file:

Windows Location

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\ExamSoft\Exams

1. Open File Explorer
2. Navigate to Documents folder
3. Open ExamSoft → Exams folder