How to Install OpenClaw — Complete Setup Guide
OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI assistant that connects Claude, GPT-4, or Gemini to WhatsApp or Telegram — running entirely on your own computer. This guide walks you through installation from scratch.
Before you start
- A Mac running macOS (Windows/Linux support coming soon)
- An AI subscription or API key — Claude Pro, OpenAI, or Gemini
- Your phone with WhatsApp or Telegram installed
- About 5 minutes
Get your AI API key
OpenClaw connects to your AI provider. You'll need a subscription or API key. We recommend Claude — it's the best for agent work.
Run the install script
Use the Claw Academy setup wizard to get a personalized install script — it's tailored to your role (founder, developer, content creator, etc.).
Option A: Use the wizard (recommended)
Go to claw-academy.ai/setup → choose your role → download your install script.
Option B: Manual install
Open Terminal (⌘+Space → type Terminal) and run:
brew install node && npm install -g openclawThe script installs Homebrew (if missing), Node.js, and OpenClaw. It may ask for your Mac password — that's normal.
Run openclaw onboard
After installation, the onboard wizard launches automatically. It has 3 screens:
Choose AI provider
Select Claude, OpenAI, or Gemini. Paste your API key. Claude API keys start with sk-ant-api03-...
Pick a messaging channel
Choose WhatsApp (easiest), Telegram, Discord, or Signal. WhatsApp requires just scanning a QR code.
Scan the QR code
A QR code appears in your terminal. Open WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device → Scan. You have 60 seconds — act fast. If it expires, press Enter to refresh.
Test it: Send hello from your phone. If you get a reply, you're connected. 🎉
Install your agent team
Your AI is now live. The Claw Academy setup wizard generates a copy-paste message that tells your AI to download your agent team and set up your SOUL.md automatically.
How it works:
- 1. Go to /setup and complete the wizard
- 2. Copy the "Agent Setup Message" in Step 2
- 3. Paste it in your OpenClaw chat (WhatsApp/Telegram)
- 4. Your AI downloads the agents and configures SOUL.md automatically
Frequently asked questions
What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI assistant platform that connects Claude, GPT-4, or Gemini to messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. Unlike ChatGPT, it runs on your own computer with persistent memory.
Is OpenClaw free?
OpenClaw itself is free and open source. You need your own AI API key (Claude, OpenAI, or Gemini) which has its own cost. Gemini has a free tier. The Claw Academy setup guide is free.
What is SOUL.md?
SOUL.md is a file that gives your AI a persistent identity and personality. It's like a job description for your AI — making it consistent and purposeful across every conversation.
Can I connect OpenClaw to WhatsApp?
Yes. Choose WhatsApp during the onboard wizard. Scan the QR code via WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device. You have 60 seconds to scan. If it expires, press Enter for a new one.
Does it work on Windows?
Not yet. OpenClaw currently supports macOS. Windows and Linux support is coming soon.