OpenClaw Setup Guide 2026: Install & Run OpenClaw AI Easily
Welcome to the OpenClaw Setup Guide 2026. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to install OpenClaw and run OpenClaw. By following these instructions, you'll be able to set up OpenClaw efficiently and begin leveraging its powerful AI capabilities for automation and enhanced workflows.
Getting Started with OpenClaw
What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is an open-source AI platform designed to function as a personal AI assistant and enable automation across various messaging apps. It integrates seamlessly with platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp, and iMessage, providing a unified interface. With OpenClaw, you can set up automated responses, manage your calendar, and even perform browser automation. OpenClaw with Claude Opus 4.6 integration allows for advanced AI processing. The goal is to empower users to use OpenClaw for increased productivity and streamlined workflows.
Key Features of OpenClaw AI
OpenClaw AI boasts a range of features designed to enhance productivity and automation. These include the ability to configure prompts for AI agent interactions and a robust memory system that references files like soul.md and agents.md. Web searches, triggered by user prompts, can be easily integrated to provide up-to-date information. OpenClaw handles explicit approval for sensitive actions. Additionally, OpenClaw offers a user-friendly dashboard and CLI for managing your AI workflows and tasks. Users can also debug with the integrated debugging tools.
System Requirements for Installation
To install OpenClaw successfully, your system must meet certain requirements. The installer script simplifies the install OpenClaw process, providing a seamless onboarding experience using the onboarding wizard. Ensure all useful environment variables are correctly configured. Here's a breakdown of some key requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
| Operating System | OpenClaw is compatible with macOS and Ubuntu. |
| Dependencies | Ensure you have Node.js installed, as OpenClaw relies on npm for package management. You will also need an Anthropic API key or a ChatGPT API key for the AI functionalities. |
| Hardware | A Mac Mini is often used for running the daemon. |
Installing OpenClaw
Step-by-Step Installation on Ubuntu
To install OpenClaw on Ubuntu, you'll need to follow a few steps. First, make sure these prerequisites are in place:
- Node.js
- npm
Next, download the latest installer script from the GitHub repository. Run the script, which will guide you through the onboarding wizard. You will need to configure your Anthropic API key or ChatGPT API key during the onboarding process. This script simplifies the setup OpenClaw process, setting up the daemon and ensuring all dependencies are correctly installed. Make sure to set up all useful environment variables. The installer will verify the API connectivity and set up automated OpenClaw control.
Installing OpenClaw on macOS
To install OpenClaw on macOS, the process is similar to the Ubuntu installation. Before you begin, make sure you have the following installed:
- Node.js
- npm
Once confirmed, download the installer script from the GitHub repository and execute it. Follow the onboarding wizard's prompts to configure your Anthropic API key or ChatGPT API key. The script will handle the installation of all necessary dependencies and the daemon. A Mac Mini can be used to run OpenClaw for always-on access. Validate the connection to the specified API and the functionality of automated responses to ensure your system is running smoothly.
Using Docker for OpenClaw Installation
For a more containerized approach, you can install OpenClaw using Docker. Clone the GitHub repository, navigate to the Docker directory, and build the Docker image using the provided Dockerfile. Next, run OpenClaw within a Docker container, mapping the necessary ports and volumes. You'll still need to configure your Anthropic API key or ChatGPT API key by setting the appropriate useful environment variables. This method allows for easy deployment and isolation, making it ideal for production environments. Remember to debug any potential issues by inspecting the container logs. With Docker, you're ensured OpenClaw runs in a consistent environment, regardless of the host system, paving the way to use OpenClaw to its fullest potential.
Setting Up OpenClaw
Running the Onboarding Wizard
Once you install OpenClaw, the onboarding wizard will guide you through the initial OpenClaw setup. This process involves setting up your API key for either ChatGPT or Anthropic API key and configuring essential parameters to set up automated workflows. The onboarding process ensures that your personal AI assistant is ready to go, minimizing the hassle and helping you use OpenClaw effectively from the start. The installer script makes this process seamless.
Configuring Useful Environment Variables
Properly setting up useful environment variables is crucial for OpenClaw to function correctly. These variables include your API key, authentication details, and other critical API configurations. Ensure that all necessary useful environment variables are configured to avoid issues when you run OpenClaw. By paying close attention to these settings, you can ensure that your OpenClaw setup is stable and reliable, allowing you to maximize your automation capabilities. This step also ensures OpenClaw recognizes your workspace.
Accessing the OpenClaw Dashboard
The dashboard provides a central hub for managing your OpenClaw configurations and monitoring its activity. From here, you can manage your AI agent settings, review logs, and debug any issues. The dashboard interface helps you configure your prompt and monitor the effectiveness of your automation. Utilize the CLI for advanced control, but the dashboard makes it easier to get getting started. By familiarizing yourself with the dashboard, you can harness the full potential of OpenClaw for streamlined workflows and enhanced productivity.
Running OpenClaw
How to Run OpenClaw AI Agents
To run OpenClaw AI agents, ensure that your OpenClaw setup is complete and all useful environment variables are properly configured. Define specific prompts for your AI agents to guide their actions and responses. Regularly monitor the performance of your AI agents via the dashboard and make adjustments as needed. Integrating the memory system, including files like soul.md and agents.md, enhances the AI's capabilities. With proper setup, you can use OpenClaw to automate a wide range of tasks effectively.
Integrating Messaging Apps with OpenClaw
OpenClaw seamlessly integrates with various messaging apps such as Telegram, WhatsApp, and iMessage. This integration allows you to set up automated responses, manage your calendar, and perform other tasks directly from your preferred messaging apps. To configure these integrations, follow the instructions provided in the OpenClaw setup guide and ensure that your API key is correctly configured. By leveraging these integrations, you can streamline your communication and boost productivity, utilizing Clawdbot to its maximum potential.
Using OpenClaw for Web Searches
One of the powerful features of OpenClaw is its ability to perform web searches triggered by user prompts. By integrating web searches into your workflows, you can quickly access up-to-date information and enhance the capabilities of your AI agent. To enable this feature, ensure that your API key is properly configured and that you have granted the necessary permissions. You can then use OpenClaw to conduct web searches and incorporate the results into your automated tasks, enriching its memory system and improving decision-making capabilities.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Installation Errors and Fixes
Encountering issues while trying to install OpenClaw is not uncommon, but most problems can be resolved with a systematic approach. Check that Node.js and npm are correctly installed and updated. Verify your API key is valid and properly configured within the useful environment variables. Always examine the error logs for clues, and consult the GitHub repository for community-driven solutions. This step-by-step approach can get you getting started in the right direction, so you can use OpenClaw sooner.
Configuration Problems
Improper configuration is a frequent cause of OpenClaw malfunctions. Double-check all useful environment variables related to API access, authentication, and workflow settings. Ensure that your prompts are correctly formatted and that the daemon is running smoothly. Using the dashboard, review all settings meticulously and make any necessary adjustments. This ensures OpenClaw runs as expected, unlocking its full automation potential, so you can install a long term solution.
Running OpenClaw on Different Platforms
OpenClaw is designed to be cross-platform compatible, but running it on Ubuntu, macOS, or other systems may require specific adjustments. For Ubuntu, ensure all dependencies are met. On macOS, verify that file permissions are correctly set. Docker provides a consistent environment across all platforms. Regularly test your workflows to ensure compatibility and troubleshoot any platform-specific issues. If you're on a Mac Mini, make sure it is always running. This will make sure that when you run OpenClaw, it will run smoothly.
Advanced Configuration
Customizing OpenClaw with API Integration
To maximize the functionality of OpenClaw, leverage API integration to connect it with other services and systems. Create custom workflows by integrating OpenClaw with various platforms, enabling automation tailored to your specific needs. Properly configure your API key and manage authentication to ensure secure and efficient communication between OpenClaw and external services. This level of customization ensures you use OpenClaw to its maximum potential as a personal AI assistant.
Using NPM for Package Management
NPM (Node Package Manager) is crucial for managing OpenClaw's dependencies and adding new features. Use npm to install, update, and manage OpenClaw packages efficiently. Regularly check for updates to ensure that you're using the latest versions of all dependencies, enhancing stability and security. By leveraging npm, you can easily extend OpenClaw's capabilities and keep your system up to date, enabling you to run OpenClaw with optimal performance. Make sure you know how to configure your settings correctly so you are getting started properly.
Setting Up a VPS for OpenClaw
For reliable, always-on access to OpenClaw, consider setting up a Virtual Private Server (VPS). A VPS ensures that OpenClaw can run OpenClaw continuously without being tied to your local machine. This is especially beneficial for long-running automation tasks and integrations. Ensure your VPS meets the system requirements and configure it properly to optimize performance. A VPS ensures consistent uptime and reliable execution of your AI agents which means you can easily use OpenClaw effectively as your personal AI assistant.
Q: What is the OpenClaw Setup Guide 2026 and which use case does it target?
A: The OpenClaw Setup Guide 2026 is a step-by-step installation and onboarding manual for installing and running the OpenClaw AI personal assistant across macOS and headless servers. It targets common use cases such as a macOS app onboarding flow, running a local gateway for privacy-first LLM access, and configuring OpenClaw as a chatbot or personal ai assistant for drafting messages, browsing the web, or connecting to claude code and other llm backends.
Q: How do I run the one-line installer for OpenClaw and what does the installer script do?
A: The one-line installer downloads and verifies the installer script, installs the OpenClaw binary, sets up the clawdbot service, and creates a default gateway config. On macOS the script will detect whether you want a GUI app or CLI-only install. The installer handles node detection, sets default gateway settings, and offers opt-in steps for auth and integrations like ollama or tailscale serve. Non-technical users can accept defaults to complete a basic setup quickly.
Q: How do I configure gateway settings and gateway config for secure remote access?
A: Gateway settings live in the gateway config file in your OpenClaw config directory. Configure an auth method (API key, OAuth, or local auth), open required ports or use tailscale serve for NAT traversal, and restrict allowed LLM backends and routes. For production use, enable TLS, set pay per token limits if using remote claude pro or max, and confirm the gateway's allowed origins to protect data. The guide includes sample gateway config snippets for common scenarios.
Q: Can I use claude code or ollama as my llm backend, and how do I switch between them?
A: Yes—OpenClaw supports multiple llm backends including claude code and ollama. In the gateway config you set backend endpoints and credentials (for claude pro or max or a local ollama instance). To switch, update the gateway settings to point to a different backend, restart the gateway, and validate with a test request. The guide describes fallback rules and pay per token monitoring when using hosted providers.
Q: What does macos app onboarding look like and how does it differ from CLI installation?
A: macos app onboarding provides a guided GUI experience: installer prompts for permissions, optional integration with system contacts, and an onboarding flow that explains privacy and auth settings. The CLI installation exposes the same features via commands and a user.md reference. Both flows cover gateway config, enabling the clawdbot service, and connecting to llm backends; macOS focuses on ease for non-technical users while CLI offers advanced control over gateway and auth parameters.
Q: How do I enable secure auth and manage user access for multiple users or devices?
A: Configure auth in the gateway config to use API keys, OAuth, or single-sign-on providers. For multi-user deployments, create per-user API keys and role-based policies that limit access to specific backends or features (for example, disabling browsing the web or pay per token usage). Store secrets in a secure vault, rotate keys regularly, and log access for audit. The guide shows examples of generating API keys, integrating with existing identity providers, and enforcing per-user rate limits.
Q: What development tools and files should I expect, such as user.md and draft messages support?
A: The repo includes user.md for onboarding documentation, sample markdown templates for draft messages, and examples showing how to call claude code or other llm endpoints. Development tooling includes a CLI for node detection, a one-line installer, and scripts to launch clawdbot. The OpenClaw SDK supports programmatic workflows like generating draft messages or browsing the web via the configured gateway.
Q: How does OpenClaw handle local node detection and running on devices like a Mac Mini or headless server?
A: OpenClaw performs node detection during install to choose optimal defaults: on a Mac Mini it proposes macos app onboarding and GUI install; on headless servers it suggests CLI install and systemd or launchd service files. The installer registers the node, optionally enrolls it with the gateway, and reports capabilities (CPU, GPU, available llm models). You can then select which resources to register for local or remote LLM serving.
Q: What troubleshooting steps should I follow if the gateway or clawdbot fails to start or cannot reach claude pro or max?
A: First check gateway logs for auth errors and network errors, confirm gateway settings and gateway config point to the correct endpoints, and verify firewall or tailscale serve settings. Ensure your API keys or claude code credentials are valid and that the provider’s status is healthy. For local ollama instances, confirm the service is running and the CLI can query models. The guide includes diagnostic commands, log locations, and steps to recreate the gateway config and restart services safely.