❓ FAQ

What is OpenClaw?

OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent platform that runs locally on your machine or server. It connects to messaging apps (Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord, Slack, Matrix, iMessage, Signal, QQ Bot, and more) and lets you interact with AI agents from your pocket. Think of it as a bridge between your favorite chat apps and AI assistants.

What do I need to run OpenClaw?

You need:

• Node 24 recommended or Node 22.19+ minimum (the installer handles this automatically)
• Model access via API key, OAuth/Codex, Claude CLI, OpenRouter, Ollama/LM Studio, or another supported provider
• A local computer, mini PC, VPS, or server. Use strict tool policy and allowlists if it can access private data.

Is OpenClaw free?

OpenClaw itself is 100% free and open source (MIT license). However, you'll pay for the AI API usage (e.g., Anthropic charges per token for Claude). Running costs depend on how much you use it — typically $5-50/month for personal use.

Does my data leave my computer?

Your data is sent to your chosen AI provider (Anthropic, OpenAI, etc.) for processing. But OpenClaw runs locally — there's no OpenClaw cloud server. Your files, memory, and configuration stay on your machine.

Where is the config file?

The main config lives at ~/.openclaw/openclaw.json. You can edit it directly or use the configure command:

How do I switch AI models?

Run the configure command and select a new model:

Or switch live in chat with /model. Config uses agents.defaults.model.primary and model allowlists/fallbacks.

Can I use multiple AI providers?

Yes! You can configure multiple providers and switch between them. You can also route different channels or users to different models using multi-agent routing.

What are workspace files (SOUL.md, USER.md)?

These are markdown files in ~/.openclaw/workspace/ that define your agent's personality and context:

• SOUL.md — Core values and how the agent thinks
• IDENTITY.md — Name, role, and capabilities
• USER.md — Info about you (timezone, preferences)
• MEMORY.md — Long-term memory and context
• AGENTS.md — Guidelines for agent behavior

Which messaging apps are supported?

Supported channels include Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord, Slack, Matrix, Mattermost, Microsoft Teams, Google Chat, iMessage, Signal, QQ Bot, Feishu/Lark, LINE, IRC, Twitch, Zalo, Synology Chat, WebChat, and more. See the Channels page for setup guides.

Can I use multiple channels at once?

Yes! OpenClaw can run all channels simultaneously. You can message from Telegram and get responses on Discord — your agent handles routing.

How do group chats work?

By default, the agent only responds when mentioned (@yourbot). You can change this to always respond or configure custom mention patterns.

The gateway won't start

Common fixes:

• Check if another instance is running: openclaw gateway status
• Check for port conflicts (default: 18789)
• Run openclaw doctor to diagnose issues
• Check logs: ~/.openclaw/logs/

WhatsApp keeps disconnecting

WhatsApp Web sessions can expire. Try:

• Re-pair with openclaw channels login
• Keep your phone connected to the internet
• Don't use WhatsApp Web in your browser simultaneously

Agent responses are slow

Response time depends on your AI provider. Try:

• Use a faster/current model or lower thinking level for routine turns
• Check your internet connection
• Reduce context size by clearing old memory

How do I update OpenClaw?

Package installs use the safe staged updater and restart verification. Use openclaw update status to check your channel.

How do I make my agent smarter?

The key is good prompting in your workspace files:

• Write a detailed SOUL.md with clear values
• Give context in USER.md about your work and preferences
• Use MEMORY.md to store important ongoing context
• Define clear anti-patterns (what NOT to do)

Should I run OpenClaw on a server?

You can, but most people run it on a Mac mini, always-on laptop, or home server. For cloud hosting, any VPS that can run the current Node line works. Tailscale makes remote access easy.

How do I backup my agent?

Backup the entire ~/.openclaw/ directory. This includes your config, workspace files, memory, and sessions. Git-track your workspace for version control.