Installing OpenClaw on Linux – Including Prerequisites & Dependencies

Installing OpenClaw, formerly known as Clawdbot or Moltbot, on a Linux system is efficient due to the availability of a streamlined installation script provided by the developers. This script simplifies the installation by automating various tasks, including checking for necessary dependencies, ensuring a more seamless setup process. Here, we’ll delve deeper into each step of the installation and configuration process.

System Prerequisites

Before you begin the installation, it’s crucial to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for optimal performance. Adequate system resources will contribute to a smoother experience, especially when building and running complex AI skills.

Minimum System Requirements:

• Memory: At least 2 GB of RAM is required, though 4 GB is recommended for optimal performance, particularly when developing or running advanced AI skills.
• Disk Space: Approximately 20 GB of free disk space ensures you have enough room for the application and any additional skills or data it may require.
• Node.js: A minimum version of 22 is required. While the installation script attempts to install or update Node.js, having it pre-installed can prevent potential issues and expedite the process.

---

1. Install Dependencies

Although the main installation script automates most tasks, manually installing essential build tools can help prevent errors during the compilation of native modules, such as llama.cpp, used by OpenClaw.

Command to Install Core Build Tools:

sudo apt update && sudo apt install -y curl git build-essential

Explanation of Tools:

• curl: This tool is necessary to download the installation script from the web.
• git: Git is used for managing OpenClaw skills and repositories, allowing you to clone, update, and manage different skill sets.
• build-essential: A package that includes GCC, G++, and Make, which are essential for compiling native components required by OpenClaw.

---

2. Run the Official Installer

Leverage the official shell script for a standard and recommended installation of OpenClaw. This script detects your operating system and prepares the environment accordingly.

How to Execute the Official Installer:

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

What to Expect During Installation:

1. Environment Check: The script checks for a compatible version of Node.js, installing or upgrading it if necessary to meet the application requirements.
2. Security Warning: You’ll see a prompt regarding security risks. Use the arrow keys to select Yes to continue the installation.
3. Onboarding Mode: For newcomers, QuickStart mode is recommended, as it applies sensible default settings to simplify setup.

---

3. Initial Configuration (TUI)

Following the completion of the installation script, a Terminal User Interface (TUI) will guide you through the initial configuration of OpenClaw.

Steps in the Initial Configuration:

• Model Provider Selection: You have the option to choose from cloud providers such as OpenAI, Anthropic, or Gemini. Alternatively, you can opt to Skip for now if you plan to use a local model in the future.
• Channel Setup: Connect OpenClaw to applications like Telegram or Discord. This step can be postponed and configured later via the web dashboard.
• Hatching: This process initializes the workspace. Select Hatch in TUI to proceed with workspace initialization within the terminal interface.

---

4. Accessing the Web Dashboard

Once installation is complete, the OpenClaw Gateway runs in the background. Access the web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) for further management and configuration by navigating to:

http://localhost:18789

Security Consideration:

• Security Note: It’s essential to avoid exposing port 18789 to the public internet for security reasons. If using OpenClaw on a remote VPS, utilize an SSH tunnel or a VPN service like Tailscale to access the dashboard securely without exposing sensitive data.

---

Useful Commands

These commands are essential for managing and troubleshooting your OpenClaw installation:

• Check System Health:

  openclaw doctor

  This command checks for common configuration issues.

• View Logs:

  openclaw logs --follow

  Use this command for real-time monitoring of logs, which is particularly useful for debugging connection errors or other issues.

• Restart the Service:

  openclaw gateway restart

  This command restarts the OpenClaw Gateway service, ensuring that changes to configurations or updates take effect promptly.