How do I prepare your system and install node.js?

OpenClaw requires Node.js version 22+ (24 recommended). Check your current version with `node -v`. If not installed or outdated: - **macOS/Linux**: Use the installer from [nodejs.org](https://nodejs.org) or Homebrew (`brew install node`). - **Windows**: Download from [nodejs.org](https://nodejs.org) and run the MSI installer. Use WSL2 for best experience. Verify: `node -v` and `npm -v` should work.

How do I install openclaw cli with official script?

**macOS/Linux**: ```bash curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash ``` **Windows (PowerShell)**: ```powershell iwr -useb https://openclaw.ai/install.ps1 | iex ``` This installs the CLI globally via npm and prepares for onboarding. Run `openclaw --version` to verify.

How do I run onboarding wizard and install daemon?

Execute: ```bash openclaw onboard --install-daemon ``` Follow the wizard prompts to configure: - Gateway settings - Workspace - Initial channels and skills - Installs as a persistent service (launchd/systemd). This handles auth, basic config, and daemon setup.

How do I verify installation and access dashboard?

Run these commands: - `openclaw doctor` (checks config/security) - `openclaw status` (gateway status) - `openclaw dashboard` (opens http://127.0.0.1:18789/ in browser) Use the web UI to review settings, sessions, and channels.

How do I configure channel, model, and test?

**Add AI Model** (e.g., Anthropic): Edit `~/.openclaw/openclaw.json`: ```json { "agent": { "model": "anthropic/claude-3-5-sonnet-20241022" } } ``` Add API key via dashboard or env. **Add Channel** (e.g., Telegram): Create bot via @BotFather, get token, add to config/dashboard. **Test**: ```bash openclaw message send --target @yourbot --message "Hello from OpenClaw" ``` Chat with your assistant.

Getting Started with OpenClaw

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Instant Toolkit

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Step-by-Step Guide

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OpenClaw requires Node.js version 22+ (24 recommended). Check your current version with node -v. If not installed or outdated:

macOS/Linux: Use the installer from nodejs.org or Homebrew (brew install node).
Windows: Download from nodejs.org and run the MSI installer. Use WSL2 for best experience.

Verify: node -v and npm -v should work.

Why this step matters:

-Ensures compatibility and smooth installation without errors
-Builds a reliable environment for running AI agents locally

5-10 minutes

Terminal/Command Prompt, Node.js installer, Browser

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Definition of Done

•Node.js v22+ is installed and `node -v` shows correct version
•`npm -v` command executes successfully

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Installing wrong Node version (e.g., below 22)

→Download LTS or current from nodejs.org and verify with `node -v`

❌ PATH not updated after install

→Restart terminal or add npm global bin to PATH manually

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Suggested Videos

OpenClaw Tutorial for Beginners - Crash Course

How to Setup OpenClaw on Windows 11

OpenClaw Installation Guide: The Setup That Actually Works!

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Learning Resources

📖 Online Courses

OpenClaw Academy

beginner

OpenClaw Academy

📖 Recommended Books

OpenClaw for Absolute Beginners

beginner

by Shane McGrath

🌐 Helpful Websites

OpenClaw Official Documentation

documentation

Complete guides for installation, configuration, and advanced usage

OpenClaw GitHub Repository

documentation

Source code, issues, and contributor guides

🛠️ Useful Tools

Node.js

runtime

Required JavaScript runtime for OpenClaw

How to setup openclaw