Install OpenClaw Locally

Run OpenClaw on your own Mac or Windows computer instead of a VPS.

Should You Do This?

Local installation is best if:

• You have a computer that's always on (or don't mind leaving it on)
• You want £0 hosting cost
• You're comfortable with terminal commands

We recommend VPS instead if:

• You want OpenClaw available 24/7 (even when your computer is off)
• You don't want to deal with your computer's firewall/network settings
• You're willing to pay £4–6/month for hosting

Quick Local Installation

Mac or Linux

Open Terminal and run:

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

This installs Node.js (if needed) and OpenClaw.

Then start OpenClaw:

openclaw gateway start

Windows

Download and install Node.js first (LTS version).

Then open PowerShell or Command Prompt and run:

npm install -g openclaw

Start OpenClaw:

openclaw gateway start

Next Steps

Once OpenClaw is running:

1. Get an AI API key - See Step 2 in the VPS guide (same process)
2. Configure OpenClaw - Add your API key when prompted
3. Connect WhatsApp - Follow the WhatsApp setup guide
4. Start using it - Message yourself on WhatsApp

Important Limitations

• Your computer must stay on - OpenClaw stops when you turn off your computer
• Port forwarding may be needed - Some features require opening ports on your router
• Sleep mode breaks it - Disable sleep/hibernation if you want 24/7 availability
• No automatic updates - You need to manually update OpenClaw

Why We Recommend VPS Instead

For £4–6/month, you get:

• Always-on availability (even when your computer is off)
• No port forwarding headaches
• Automatic restarts if something crashes
• Better for WhatsApp linking (more stable connection)
• Access from anywhere (not tied to your home network)

Need Help?

For detailed local installation help, see the official OpenClaw documentation.

Or ask in the Discord community.