How to Install OpenClaw Step by Step

Choose the installation method that best fits your needs. We recommend starting with the VM Guide if you're new to OpenClaw.

Installation Guides

Recommended

Beginner's VM Guide

The safest way to start! Install OpenClaw on a virtual machine — no Mac Mini or cloud required. Includes Feishu integration and Moltbook access.

Local Deployment Guide

Step-by-step guide to deploy OpenClaw on Mac, Linux, or Windows. Covers installation, model configuration, WhatsApp integration, and essential commands.

Mac Setup Guide

Complete guide for running OpenClaw on macOS with Homebrew installation, native performance optimization, and system integration.

Docker Compose Guide

Run OpenClaw with Docker Compose on a VPS or local server. Includes production-ready compose.yml, env setup, and health checks.

OpenClaw Gateway Setup

Set up OpenClaw gateway safely with env variables, startup checks, and a troubleshooting checklist for stable daily usage.

Feishu Channel Troubleshooting

Fix Feishu channel connection issues in OpenClaw, including missing permissions like contact:contact.base:readonly and message delivery checks.

Coming Soon

Mac Mini / Cloud Server

Deploy OpenClaw on a dedicated Mac Mini or cloud server for production use. Advanced setup for power users.

Overview

OpenClaw can be installed in several ways depending on your technical background and available hardware:

  • Virtual Machine (VM) - Best for beginners. Run macOS in a VM on any computer.
  • Mac Mini / Cloud Server - For production deployments with dedicated hardware.
  • Native macOS - Direct installation on your existing Mac.

System Requirements

  • macOS 12.0 (Monterey) or later
  • 8GB RAM minimum (16GB recommended)
  • 50GB free disk space
  • Internet connection for initial setup

More detailed installation guides coming soon...

Related Tutorials

Beginner's VM Guide

The safest way to start! Install OpenClaw on a virtual machine — no Mac Mini or cloud required. Includes Feishu integration and Moltbook access.

Docker Deployment

Deploy OpenClaw using Docker containers for easy setup, management, and scalability. Includes Docker Compose configurations.

Mac Setup Guide

Complete guide for running OpenClaw on macOS with Homebrew installation, native performance optimization, and system integration.