How to Install OpenClaw

Get OpenClaw running on your system in under 5 minutes. Follow this step-by-step guide.

Prerequisites

  • 1.

    Node.js 22 or higher

    Check your version: node --version

    Install Node.js
  • 2.

    npm, pnpm, or yarn

    One of these package managers comes with Node.js

  • 3.

    AI Model API Key

    You'll need an API key from Anthropic, OpenAI, or Google

Installation Steps

1 Install OpenClaw

Install OpenClaw globally using npm, pnpm, or yarn: 

npm install -g openclaw

Or with pnpm: pnpm add -g openclaw
Or with yarn: yarn global add openclaw

2 Run Initial Setup

Run the onboarding command to configure your AI assistant: 

openclaw onboard

This will guide you through:

  • Choosing your AI model (Claude, GPT-4, Gemini, etc.)
  • Entering your API key
  • Connecting your first channel
  • Setting up basic preferences

3 Start OpenClaw

Start your AI assistant: 

openclaw start

🎉 OpenClaw is now running! Check the console for the URL or connection details for your channels.

Alternative: Docker Installation

If you prefer using Docker, you can run OpenClaw in a container: 

docker run -d \
  --name openclaw \
  -p 3000:3000 \
  -v ~/.openclaw:/app/.openclaw \
  openclaw/openclaw:latest

Next Steps

📱 Connect a Channel

Set up WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, or other messaging platforms.

⚡ Explore Features

Learn about voice, browser control, custom Skills, and more.

🔧 Config Generator

Generate your openclaw.json configuration interactively.

❓ FAQ

Common questions and troubleshooting tips.

Need Help?

Join our community on Discord or check out the full documentation.

Join Discord Documentation