How to install OpenClaw

Requirements

• A machine that stays on if you want the agent available 24/7 (a VPS, home server or always-on Mac)
• A current Node.js release — check the official OpenClaw docs for the exact minimum version
• An API key for the AI model provider you plan to use
• Basic terminal experience

Install steps

1. Install or update Node.js — Use your package manager or nvm to install the Node version the OpenClaw docs require, then confirm with node -v.
2. Install the CLI globally — Install the package from npm.

   npm install -g openclaw@latest

3. Run onboarding and install the background service — The onboarding wizard configures your model provider and channels; --install-daemon keeps the gateway running as a system service.

   openclaw onboard --install-daemon

4. Connect a chat app — Follow the wizard to link Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord or another channel so you can talk to the agent from your phone.

Commands change between releases. Always confirm against the official OpenClaw documentation before running them on a production server.

Common installation problems

• Unsupported Node version — upgrade Node before installing
• Global npm permission errors — use a Node version manager instead of sudo
• The agent stops when you log out — make sure the daemon/service was installed and enabled
• Commands running with full access to your machine — run the agent in a VM, container or separate user account

The no-install option

If you want the result — an agent with shell, browser, memory, schedules and chat-app access — without maintaining a server, MobiClaw hosts it for you. Create an account, name your agent, and start giving it tasks. Each agent runs in its own sandbox, and models are included.

Frequently asked questions

Can I install OpenClaw on my phone?

OpenClaw is designed to run on a computer or server; you talk to it from your phone through a chat app. If you want to create and manage agents directly from your phone, MobiClaw has a mobile web app and an Android app.

How long does installing OpenClaw take?

If Node and your API keys are ready, the install itself takes a few minutes. Plan for longer if you are also setting up a VPS, security hardening and chat-app bots.

Is there a free trial?

Yes. Every paid plan starts with a 24-hour trial for $1 so we can keep abuse out. If you do nothing, the subscription starts automatically after the trial; cancel any time before that from Billing and you will not be charged again.