Tusk is a relatively new web browser extension for Chrome and Firefox -- and also compatible web browsers -- that adds support for KeePass password manager databases in supported browsers.

KeePass is my password manager of choice. I have multiple reasons for that, for example, that I have full control over the data and that the software passed a security audit recently.

I don't need sync or autofill functionality, mobile applications or online storage, but KeePass supports that through plugins, third-party programs or browser extensions. Users who require the functionality can use these tools to add it.

Tusk browser extension

Tusk is a browser extension that loads KeePass databases to make the authentication data available on the Web. The browser extension does not depend on a local KeePass extension but loads KeePass database files directly from cloud storage or the local system.

One limitation of Tusk is that you do need access to a KeePass database. If you don't have created one in the past already, you need to use KeePass or a compatible application to create a database file.

Installation of Tusk is a breeze. The extension adds an icon to the browser's main toolbar that you interact with. The extension loads a "getting started" guide on the first run that walks you through the steps of setting Tusk up correctly.

What you need to do is load a KeePass database either from a supported cloud hosting service, a shared link, or the local file system. You may load a sample database file as well to test the functionality without loading one of your databases.

Tusk supports keyfiles. Keyfiles improve security of KeePass databases and add a second factor to the authentication process.

The loading of the password database is just the first step of the process. Once you have done so, you need to click on the extension's icon in the browser's toolbar, fill out the master password, and click on unlock the database. The extension remembers the master password only for a period. The maximum is 8 hours or until the end of the browser session.

Tusk does not have access to the database file until it is unlocked, and it is read-only which means that it does not get access to the cloud storage and does not manipulate the database in any form.

Tusk is a fork of CKP, a browser extension for Google Chrome. The main goal of the extension is to improve the user interface, offer better security, and support for the KeePass KDBX 4 format.

Tusk can auto-fill usernames and passwords on sites but there is no option to save data to a loaded database. It is an open source application; you can check out the source of the extension on GitHub.

Closing Words

If you use KeePass or a compatible program and like better browser integration, Tusk may be what you are looking for. The extension had a couple of minor hiccups during setup and use, but nothing major.

Now You: Do you use a password manager? If so which, and why?

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Summary Author Rating 5 based on 5 votes Software Name Tusk Software Category Browser

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