How to Install OpenClaw in Under 15 Minutes

New to OpenClaw? Read what OpenClaw is first.

Prerequisites#

A supported Node.js runtime. The submitted draft lists Node.js 24.16+ or 26.1+ (Node 26 recommended); check the docs' Node.js compatibility page for the current requirement.
Model access: a Claude Code login, Codex login, API key, or local models via Ollama.

Installation steps#

macOS / Linux / WSL2

bash

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

Windows (PowerShell)

powershell

iwr -useb https://openclaw.ai/install.ps1 | iex

Other install methods (Docker, Nix and standalone builds) are listed in the docs. The installer starts onboarding. Choose Quick Start if you already have credentials. It verifies them with a real completion and opens the dashboard.

After install#

bash

openclaw gateway status
openclaw dashboard

Install the Gateway as a background service so it keeps running when you close the terminal. Connect Telegram for the fastest mobile path.

Before you connect email, payments or production systems, work through OpenClaw security. Then set up schedules and automations.

Sources & Further Reading#

Claim / Topic	Source	Date
Install commands, onboarding and install methods	OpenClaw docs: Getting started	Read 2026-11-03
Project overview	openclaw.ai	Read 2026-11-03

Frequently asked questions

How do I install OpenClaw?

To install OpenClaw, run the official install script (curl on macOS, Linux or WSL2; PowerShell on Windows), follow onboarding with your model credentials, then run the Gateway as a background service. Most people have a working chat in under 15 minutes.

What do I need before installing?

A supported Node.js version (check the docs' Node.js compatibility page) and model access: a Claude or Codex login, an API key, or local models through Ollama.

How do I keep OpenClaw running?

Install the Gateway as a background service so it keeps running after you close the terminal, and check it with openclaw gateway status.