30-Second Quick Start
Don't want to read the full guide? Just copy and run this command:
One-Click Install and Launch
macOS / Linux:
curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash && openclaw onboard --install-daemon
Windows (Open PowerShell as Administrator):
iwr -useb https://openclaw.ai/install.ps1 | iex; openclaw onboard --install-daemon
After installation, open your browser and visit http://127.0.0.1:18789/ to start using OpenClaw!
What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is an AI programming assistant gateway that allows you to interact with AI agents through your favorite messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Discord.
Before You Begin
This guide assumes you have no prior experience with OpenClaw. We will walk you through everything step by step.
Why Use OpenClaw?
Here are some reasons why OpenClaw might be right for you:
- Multi-platform access: Chat with AI through WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, or Mattermost
- Local control: Run everything on your own computer
- Privacy-focused: Your conversations stay on your machine
- Customizable: Configure agents and workflows to suit your needs
Prerequisites
Before installing OpenClaw, make sure you have:
- A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
- Node.js version 22 or higher
- Basic familiarity with using a terminal or command prompt
Windows Users
If you are on Windows, we strongly recommend using WSL2 (Windows Subsystem for Linux) for the best experience. Native Windows support is not fully tested.
Quick Installation
Install the CLI
Open your terminal and run the following command:
curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash
Or if you prefer npm:
npm install -g openclaw@latest
Expected Result
openclaw@1.x.x installed successfully
Run the Setup Wizard
The onboard wizard will guide you through the initial configuration:
openclaw onboard
Step-by-Step Configuration
2.1 Accept the Terms
When prompted with the disclaimer, use your keyboard arrow keys to select Yes, then press Enter.
2.2 Choose Configuration Mode
Select QuickStart for the simplest setup. This is recommended for beginners.
2.3 Select AI Model
Choose your preferred AI model provider:
- Qwen - Free model, great for testing
- Moonshot AI (Kimi) - Paid model with better performance
- OpenAI - GPT-4 and other models
- Anthropic - Claude models
After selection, you'll receive a link to authenticate with your chosen provider. Copy the link to your browser and complete the login.
2.4 Select Messaging Channel
Choose your preferred messaging platform (WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, Feishu, etc.) or select Skip if you want to configure this later.
2.5 Install Skills (Optional)
When asked about installing skills, select No for now. You can add skills later.
2.6 Enable Memory Hook
This is important! When you see the hooks selection:
- Use Space to select memory (enables AI to remember conversations)
- Press Enter to confirm
2.7 Restart the Service
Select Restart to apply your configuration. You should see a success message.
Start the Gateway
Start the OpenClaw gateway service:
openclaw gateway
Expected Result
Gateway started on port 18789 Listening for messages...
Specify a Custom Port
You can specify a custom port if needed:
openclaw gateway --port 18789 --verbose
Verify Your Installation
Open a new terminal window and check that everything is working:
openclaw status
openclaw health
Expected Result
Gateway: running Health: OK Auth: configured
Keep Your Service Running
Important: Prevent Disconnection
By default, if you close your terminal, the gateway will stop. To keep it running in the background, use one of these methods:
Method 1: Install as Daemon (Recommended)
openclaw onboard --install-daemon
This installs OpenClaw as a system service that starts automatically.
Method 2: Use Tmux (Linux/macOS)
If you're running on a remote server:
# Install tmux
sudo apt install tmux -y # Ubuntu/Debian
sudo yum install tmux -y # CentOS/RHEL
# Create a new session
tmux new -s openclaw
# Start the gateway
openclaw gateway
# Detach from session: Press Ctrl+B, then D
# The gateway keeps running even after you disconnect!
# To reconnect later:
tmux attach -t openclaw
Method 3: Use Screen
screen -S openclaw
openclaw gateway
# Press Ctrl+A, then D to detach
Next Steps
Now that you have OpenClaw installed, you can:
- Connect to Telegram - Set up your first messaging channel
- Connect to WhatsApp - Use WhatsApp with OpenClaw
- Troubleshoot common issues - If something went wrong
Need Help?
If you run into any issues, check our Troubleshooting guide or visit the official documentation for the most up-to-date information.