Frequently Asked Questions

OpenClaw is an open-source AI assistant that runs locally or on your server. It connects to messaging channels (Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord, Slack), uses your workspace files, and can run tools, schedule tasks, and remember context across sessions.

Run: npx openclaw@latest onboard --install-daemon (or pnpm dlx openclaw onboard). This guides you through API keys, workspace setup, and daemon installation. See the First 24 Hours guide for a full walkthrough.

Yes. OpenClaw supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. On Windows, use the Windows Setup guide for WSL2 or native installation. See Windows Setup.

OpenClaw itself is free (open source). You pay for AI APIs (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, etc.) and optional services like ElevenLabs for voice. Most users spend $10–30/month. See the Cost Calculator and Cost Optimization guide.

Telegram, WhatsApp, Discord, Slack, iMessage (Mac), Signal, and WebChat (built-in). Each channel has a setup guide — see Channels Overview.

Skills are pre-built capabilities (backup, cost tracker, daily digest, etc.). Run openclaw skills list to browse, then openclaw skills install <skill-id>. See the Skill Explorer.

Yes. OpenClaw is MIT-licensed. Source: github.com/openclaw/openclaw.

Telegram: openclaw channels add --channel telegram --token YOUR_BOT_TOKEN. WhatsApp: openclaw channels login whatsapp (QR code). Discord: add your bot token to openclaw.json. See Channels for each platform.