Get Started with OpenClaw

Set up your 24/7 AI personal assistant in just a few minutes. Includes installation and configuration guide.

Prerequisites

Node.js v22+

OpenClaw requires Node.js version 22 or higher. Check your version:

node --version

Installation

Quick Install

Run the following command to install OpenClaw:

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

API Configuration

Anthropic API (Recommended)

  1. Get your API key from console.anthropic.com
  2. Add to your .env file: ANTHROPIC_API_KEY=your-key-here

OpenAI API (Alternative)

  1. Get your API key from platform.openai.com
  2. Add to your .env file: OPENAI_API_KEY=your-key-here

MiniMax API (Chinese Users)

MiniMax M2.1 native support, perfect for users in China.

View Chinese Guide →

Channel Configuration

Connect OpenClaw to your preferred communication platform.

Discord

Create a bot at discord.com/developers and add the token to your config.

Telegram

Create a bot via @BotFather and configure the webhook.

WhatsApp

Set up WhatsApp Business API for channel integration.

First Run

Start OpenClaw with:

cd moltbot && npm run dev

OpenClaw will guide you through the initial setup process.

Video Tutorial