Getting Started with OpenClaw

Table of contents

1. Prerequisites
2. Install OpenClaw
3. Run Onboarding Wizard
4. Verify Installation
5. Send First Message
6. Next Steps
7. FAQ

Prerequisites

Before installing, ensure you have:

• Node.js 22 or newer (check with node --version)
• Terminal access (PowerShell on Windows, Terminal on macOS/Linux)
• Git (optional, for some skills)

Install OpenClaw

macOS and Linux

curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash

Windows (PowerShell)

iwr -useb https://openclaw.ai/install.ps1 | iex

Run Onboarding Wizard

Configure everything in one command:

openclaw onboard --install-daemon

This wizard will:

• Install the Gateway daemon
• Configure your first model
• Set up your workspace
• Connect your first channel

Verify Installation

Check that everything is running:

openclaw gateway status

Open the dashboard:

openclaw dashboard

Send First Message

Test with any connected channel:

openclaw message send --target <channel> --message "Hello from OpenClaw!"

Next Steps

• Connect WhatsApp
• Choose Your Model
• Daily Brief Workflow
• Security Overview
• What Are Skills?
• Troubleshooting Hub

FAQ

Q: Do I need to keep the Gateway running?
A: Yes. The Gateway handles all channels and automation.

Q: Can I run multiple instances?
A: Yes, but use different ports and configurations.

Q: What if installation fails?
A: Check Node version, permissions, and try the manual installation steps.

Q: How do I update?
A: Run openclaw update or reinstall with the latest installer.

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Connect WhatsApp