Want to learn how to install OpenClaw? This comprehensive Clawdbot installation guide walks you through setting up OpenClaw (formerly known as Clawdbot and Moltbot) on any platform—from Docker containers to dedicated Mac Mini servers, Windows PCs, cloud VPS, and even Raspberry Pi. Whether you're a beginner or experienced developer, follow this step-by-step OpenClaw install tutorial to get your AI agent running in minutes.
Why Install OpenClaw on Your Own Server?
Installing Clawdbot (OpenClaw) on your own hardware gives you complete control over your AI assistant. Your data never leaves your server, you avoid monthly subscription fees, and you can customize every aspect of the system. Unlike cloud-based AI services, OpenClaw runs entirely on hardware you own.
Note on naming: OpenClaw was previously known as Clawdbot (original name) and Moltbot (interim name). All installation guides for these names apply to OpenClaw.
Prerequisites Before You Install OpenClaw
Before installing OpenClaw (Clawdbot), make sure you have the following ready:
Hardware Requirements
- Minimum: 1GB RAM, 10GB storage, dual-core CPU (cloud LLM APIs only)
- Recommended: 2GB+ RAM, 20GB+ storage, quad-core CPU (for multiple channels)
- For local AI models (Ollama), you'll need 8GB+ RAM and a GPU is recommended.
Software Requirements
- Operating System: Linux (Ubuntu 22.04+), macOS 12+, or Windows 10/11 with WSL2
- Node.js 22+ (for npm/pnpm installation method)
- Docker & Docker Compose v2 (for container-based installation)
- Git (for cloning the repository)
Required API Keys
You'll need at least one LLM provider API key:
- OpenAI, Anthropic Claude, Google Gemini, or local models via Ollama (free)
- Optional: Messaging platform tokens (Telegram Bot, Discord Bot, etc.) for chat integrations
Choose Your OpenClaw Installation Method
OpenClaw (Clawdbot) supports multiple installation paths. Here's a comparison to help you choose the best way to install:
| Method | Difficulty | Setup Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| npm/pnpm Install | Easy | 5 minutes | Beginners, quick testing |
| Docker Compose | Medium | 10 minutes | Production, VPS, NAS |
| Mac Mini Native | Medium | 15 minutes | Dedicated home server |
| Windows (WSL2) | Medium | 20 minutes | Windows users |
| Cloud VPS | Easy-Medium | 10-15 minutes | Remote access, scalability |
| Raspberry Pi / NAS | Advanced | 30+ minutes | Low-power, always-on setups |
New to OpenClaw? Start with npm/pnpm install for the fastest setup. For production deployments, Docker Compose is recommended.
Method 1: Install OpenClaw via npm/pnpm (Fastest)
The fastest way to install Clawdbot (OpenClaw) using Node.js package managers. Requires Node.js 22 or higher installed on your system.
Supported on: Linux, macOS, Windows (via WSL2)
Step 1: Install OpenClaw Globally
Open your terminal and run one of these commands:
npm install -g openclaw@latest# Or using pnpm: pnpm add -g openclaw@latestStep 2: Run the Onboarding Wizard
The onboarding wizard configures your LLM provider (OpenAI, Anthropic, Google) and messaging integrations:
openclaw onboard --install-daemonStep 3: Start the Gateway
Launch the OpenClaw gateway server:
openclaw gateway --port 18789 --verboseAccess the web interface at: http://localhost:18789
infoWhat the Installation Does
- check_circleInstalls OpenClaw CLI globally on your system
- check_circleRuns interactive onboarding wizard for configuration
- check_circleCreates configuration files with your API keys in ~/.openclaw/
- check_circleInstalls the daemon for background operation
- check_circleSets up auto-start on system boot (optional)
Method 2: Install OpenClaw with Docker
Docker provides isolated, reproducible OpenClaw deployments. This is the recommended Clawdbot installation method for production servers, VPS, and NAS devices.
Why use Docker to install OpenClaw? It keeps Clawdbot isolated from your system, makes updates easy, and works identically across all platforms.
Step 1: Install Docker
If you don't have Docker installed, run these commands:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install docker.io docker-compose -yStep 2: Clone the Repository
Clone the official OpenClaw repository:
git clone https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw.git && cd openclawStep 3: Run the Setup Wizard
The interactive setup wizard configures your installation:
./docker-setup.shStep 4: Start OpenClaw
Launch OpenClaw with Docker Compose:
docker-compose up -dStep 5: Verify Installation
Check that OpenClaw is running:
docker-compose logs -fAccess the gateway at http://localhost:18789
For advanced Docker configuration, see our detailed Docker deployment guide. Docker deployment guide →
Method 3: Install OpenClaw on Mac Mini
The Mac Mini makes an excellent dedicated OpenClaw server—energy-efficient, powerful, and always-on. Installing Clawdbot on Mac Mini M4 is particularly well-suited for AI workloads.
Why Mac Mini for OpenClaw?
- checkApple Silicon (M1/M2/M4) provides excellent performance per watt
- checkLow power consumption (under 10W idle) for 24/7 operation
- checkCompact form factor fits anywhere
- checkNative macOS support with no WSL required
Recommendation: Recommended: M4 Mac Mini with 16GB RAM for optimal performance with local models.
Step 1: Install Node.js
Ensure you're running macOS 12 or later. Install Node.js 22+ via Homebrew:
brew install node@22 && brew link node@22Step 2: Install OpenClaw
Install OpenClaw globally using npm or pnpm:
npm install -g openclaw@latest && openclaw onboard --install-daemonStep 3: Configure Auto-Start
Set OpenClaw to start automatically when your Mac boots. The installer can handle this with the --install-daemon flag. Verify in System Settings > General > Login Items.
See our complete Mac Mini setup guide for advanced configuration options. Mac Mini setup guide →
Method 4: Install OpenClaw on Windows
Windows users can install Clawdbot (OpenClaw) through WSL2 (Windows Subsystem for Linux) or Docker Desktop. WSL2 is the recommended OpenClaw installation method for the best experience.
starOption 1: WSL2 (Recommended)
Enable WSL2
Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
wsl --installInstall Ubuntu & Node.js
After restarting, install Ubuntu and Node.js 22+:
wsl --install -d Ubuntu && curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_22.x | sudo -E bash - && sudo apt-get install -y nodejsInstall OpenClaw in Ubuntu
Open Ubuntu terminal and install OpenClaw via npm:
npm install -g openclaw@latest && openclaw onboard --install-daemonOption 2: Docker Desktop
Install Docker Desktop for Windows with the WSL2 backend, then follow the Docker installation steps above.
tips_and_updatesWindows Tips
- • WSL2 requires Windows 10 version 2004 or later
- • Enable virtualization in BIOS if Docker fails to start
- • Use Windows Terminal for a better command-line experience
Method 5: Install OpenClaw on VPS & Cloud
Deploy and install OpenClaw (Clawdbot) on a cloud server for remote access from anywhere. Popular VPS options include DigitalOcean, Vultr, AWS, and any VPS provider.
cloudDigitalOcean One-Click Droplet
The fastest cloud deployment. DigitalOcean offers a pre-configured OpenClaw droplet:
- Go to DigitalOcean Marketplace and search for 'OpenClaw'
- Create a new Droplet with the OpenClaw image
- Access OpenClaw at your Droplet's IP address
dnsVultr Ubuntu Server
Deploy on Vultr with Ubuntu 24.04:
- Create a new Ubuntu 24.04 instance (minimum 1GB RAM, 2GB recommended)
- SSH into your server
- Run the Docker installation or npm install method
Generic VPS Setup
For any Linux VPS (AWS, Linode, Contabo, etc.):
SSH into your server: ssh root@your-server-ipInstall Docker: apt update && apt install docker.io docker-compose -yClone and run: git clone https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw.git && cd openclaw && ./docker-setup.shsecuritySecurity Considerations
When deploying to a public server:
- • Use a firewall (ufw) to restrict access to port 18789
- • Set up a reverse proxy (Caddy or Nginx) with SSL
- • Use strong passwords and SSH keys
- • Consider keeping sensitive data on local-only deployments
Method 6: Install OpenClaw on Raspberry Pi & NAS
For low-power, always-on setups, Clawdbot (OpenClaw) can be installed on Raspberry Pi (4/5) and Synology NAS devices with Docker support.
developer_boardRaspberry Pi Setup
Requirements: Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 with 2GB+ RAM (1GB minimum), running Raspberry Pi OS (64-bit)
- Install Docker on Raspberry Pi: curl -sSL https://get.docker.com | sh
- Add your user to docker group: sudo usermod -aG docker $USER
- Log out and back in, then follow Docker installation steps
Note: ARM architecture is fully supported via Docker. Local LLMs via Ollama are not recommended due to limited RAM.
storageSynology NAS Setup
Synology NAS with Docker support (DS220+, DS920+, etc.) running DSM 7.2+:
- Install Container Manager package from Synology Package Center
- Clone OpenClaw repo or download docker-compose.yml to your NAS
- Configure via Container Manager UI or SSH and run docker-compose up -d
Performance Expectations
ARM and NAS devices have limited resources. Expect:
- • Slower response times compared to dedicated servers
- • Cloud LLM APIs only (local models require more power)
- • Adequate for personal use, not recommended for multi-user setups
First-Time OpenClaw Configuration
After installing Clawdbot (OpenClaw), complete these steps to get your AI agent fully operational:
Access the Web Gateway
Open your browser and navigate to:
http://localhost:18789 (or your server's IP)You'll see a setup wizard on first launch.
Configure LLM Provider
Add your API key for your chosen AI model provider:
- • OpenAI: Get key from platform.openai.com
- • Anthropic Claude: Get key from console.anthropic.com
- • Google Gemini: Get key from aistudio.google.com
- • Ollama: No key needed for local models
Connect Messaging Platforms
Link your preferred messaging apps:
- • Create a Telegram Bot via @BotFather and add the token
- • Create a Discord Bot in the Developer Portal
- • Connect via WhatsApp Business API or companion linking
Install Skills
Extend OpenClaw's capabilities by installing Skills from the marketplace. Skills add features like calendar integration, file management, and browser automation.
Troubleshooting OpenClaw Installation Issues
Running into problems with your Clawdbot install? Here are solutions to common OpenClaw installation issues:
warningPort 18789 Already in Use
Another service is using the default port.
Solution: Change the port in your .env file or docker-compose.yml, or stop the conflicting service: sudo lsof -i :18789
warningDocker Permission Denied
You need to run Docker commands with sudo or add your user to the docker group.
Solution: Run: sudo usermod -aG docker $USER, then log out and back in.
warningWSL2 Not Starting
WSL2 requires virtualization enabled in BIOS and specific Windows features.
Solution: Enable 'Virtual Machine Platform' in Windows Features. Check BIOS for Intel VT-x or AMD-V.
warningConnection Refused
OpenClaw service isn't running or firewall is blocking access.
Solution: Check service status: docker-compose ps. For remote access, ensure port 18789 is open in your firewall.
warningAPI Key Invalid
Your LLM provider API key isn't working.
Solution: Verify the key is correct and has available credits. Check for extra spaces when copying.
Still stuck? Join our Discord community for help or check the GitHub issues page.
Frequently Asked Questions About OpenClaw Installation
Is OpenClaw (Clawdbot) free to install and use?
Yes, OpenClaw is completely free and open-source. There are no licensing fees or subscriptions. You only pay for the AI model API you choose (like OpenAI or Claude), or use local models with Ollama at no cost.
What are the minimum system requirements to install OpenClaw?
Minimum: 1GB RAM, 10GB storage, and a dual-core CPU for cloud LLM APIs. For multiple channels and browser automation, we recommend 2GB+ RAM. For local AI models with Ollama, you'll need 8GB+ RAM and a GPU is recommended.
Can I install Clawdbot (OpenClaw) on a Raspberry Pi?
Yes, OpenClaw runs on Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 with 2GB+ RAM (1GB minimum) using Docker. Performance is adequate for personal use with cloud AI providers. Local LLMs are not recommended due to limited RAM.
How do I update OpenClaw to the latest version after installation?
For npm installations: run 'npm update -g openclaw'. For Docker: run 'docker-compose pull && docker-compose up -d'. Updates preserve your configuration in ~/.openclaw/.
Is my data safe after I install OpenClaw?
Absolutely. OpenClaw runs entirely on your own hardware—your conversations, files, and automation data never leave your server. You have complete control over what permissions OpenClaw has on your system.
What's Next After Installing OpenClaw?
Congratulations on successfully installing Clawdbot (OpenClaw)! Here's what to do next:
Set Up Your First Integration
Connect Telegram or Discord to start chatting with your AI agent from your phone.
Explore the Skills Marketplace
Browse and install Skills to extend OpenClaw's capabilities—from email management to browser automation.
Join the Community
Connect with other OpenClaw users on Discord, Reddit, or the GitHub discussions.
Read the Documentation
Dive deeper with our complete documentation covering advanced configuration, skill development, and API reference.