Your Guide to
OpenClaw
Step-by-step tutorials for complete beginners. Learn to install, configure, and connect OpenClaw to WhatsApp, Telegram, and Discord with zero prior experience.
Connect to your favorite platforms
Quick Start
Follow these three steps to get OpenClaw running on your system
Start Here
New to OpenClaw? Begin with our beginner-friendly introduction covering the basics.
Install OpenClaw
Step-by-step installation guides for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Docker.
Connect Channels
Link OpenClaw to WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, or Mattermost in minutes.
Powerful Features for Everyone
OpenClaw brings AI assistant capabilities to your favorite messaging platforms. Whether you are a developer or a complete beginner, OpenClaw makes AI accessible and private.
Multi-Platform Support
OpenClaw connects seamlessly to WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and Mattermost. Chat with your AI assistant from any messaging platform you prefer.
Local-First Privacy
OpenClaw runs entirely on your own computer. Your conversations, API keys, and personal data never leave your machine unless you choose to share them.
Easy Configuration
The OpenClaw setup wizard guides you through installation step by step. No coding experience required to get started with OpenClaw on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Multiple AI Providers
OpenClaw supports various AI models including Claude, GPT-4, Qwen, and Kimi. Switch between providers or use your favorite AI model with OpenClaw.
Memory & Context
OpenClaw remembers your conversation history across sessions. Enable the memory hook to let OpenClaw maintain context and provide personalized responses.
Open Source & Free
OpenClaw is completely free and open source. The OpenClaw community contributes to development, documentation, and support for all users.
Explore Documentation
Find guides organized by category to help you master OpenClaw
Installation
Platform-specific guides for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Docker deployments.
Connect Channels
Integrate with WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and Mattermost.
Tutorials
Step-by-step guides from basic setup to advanced configurations.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for common errors, connection issues, and debugging tips.
Security
Best practices for keeping your OpenClaw installation safe and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions About OpenClaw
Get answers to the most common questions about installing and using OpenClaw
OpenClaw is an open-source AI assistant gateway that runs on your local computer. It connects your favorite messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Discord to powerful AI models. When you send a message through these platforms, OpenClaw processes your request using AI providers like Claude or GPT-4, then sends the response back to you.
Yes, OpenClaw itself is completely free and open source. However, you will need to pay for AI API usage based on your chosen provider. Most users spend $5-20 per month on API costs for casual use. Some providers like Qwen offer free tiers for testing OpenClaw.
No coding experience is required. OpenClaw comes with a setup wizard that guides you through the entire installation process step by step. Our beginner tutorials on this site provide detailed instructions with screenshots for Windows, macOS, and Linux users.
OpenClaw is designed with privacy in mind. It runs entirely on your own computer, meaning your conversations and API keys stay on your machine. The software is open source, so anyone can audit the code. We recommend following our security best practices guide to keep your OpenClaw installation secure.
OpenClaw currently supports WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and Mattermost. You can connect multiple platforms simultaneously, allowing you to chat with your AI assistant from any of these apps. Each platform has its own connection guide in our documentation.
OpenClaw supports multiple AI providers including Anthropic Claude, OpenAI GPT-4, Qwen, Moonshot Kimi, and more. You can switch between providers or configure your preferred model during the OpenClaw setup wizard. Each provider has different pricing and capabilities.
OpenClaw requires Node.js version 22 or higher. It runs on Windows 10/11, macOS, and most Linux distributions. For cloud deployment, you can use services like Tencent Cloud or AWS with minimal server requirements. A basic cloud server starting at $20/month is sufficient.
You can install OpenClaw as a system daemon using the --install-daemon flag, which keeps it running automatically. Alternatively, use tools like tmux or screen on Linux/macOS servers to maintain persistent sessions. Our tutorials cover all background running methods in detail.
Ready to Get Started with OpenClaw?
Join thousands of users who have successfully installed OpenClaw using our beginner-friendly tutorials. Start chatting with AI through your favorite messaging apps today.
No signup required. OpenClaw runs on your own computer.
Unofficial Documentation
This website is not affiliated with Anthropic or the official OpenClaw team. We are an independent community resource created to help beginners navigate OpenClaw with simplified, step-by-step tutorials.
Written for beginners, by the community.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official documentation:
docs.openclaw.ai
Official Documentation