Getting Started
From zero to first chat in 5 minutes.
5 min read
Updated Feb 2026
Prerequisites
- Node.js 22 or newer (
node --versionto check) - An API key (Anthropic recommended) or OAuth subscription
- 5 minutes of your time
Step 1: Install OpenClaw
Choose your preferred method:
macOS / Linux (recommended):
curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash
Via npm (any platform):
npm install -g openclaw
Step 2: Run the Onboarding Wizard
The wizard guides you through auth, gateway settings, and optional channel setup:
openclaw onboard --install-daemon
This will:
- Configure your AI model authentication (Anthropic OAuth recommended)
- Set up the Gateway daemon as a system service
- Optionally configure chat channels (WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.)
Step 3: Check the Gateway
openclaw gateway status
You should see the Gateway running on ws://127.0.0.1:18789.
Step 4: Open the Dashboard
The fastest way to chat — no channel setup needed:
openclaw dashboard
This opens the Control UI at http://127.0.0.1:18789/ where you can chat directly in the browser.
Troubleshooting
Gateway won't start?
Run
openclaw doctor to diagnose issues. Check that Node 22+ is installed and no other process is using port 18789.
Auth issues?
Re-run
openclaw onboard to reconfigure authentication. Anthropic Pro/Max with Opus 4.6 is recommended.