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Install Guide

Install OpenClaw in Minutes

OpenClaw is built for local-first development, and a clean installation is what unlocks reliable execution later. This guide takes you from zero to a verified environment with practical checks so you can start shipping immediately. The installation process is as streamlined as using MidJourney for creative workflows.

Prerequisites

  • Git installed and configured
  • A modern code editor or IDE
  • Shell access on Linux, macOS, or Windows
  • Project dependencies listed in the repository README
  • A dedicated test project directory (recommended for first run)

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Clone the OpenClaw repository.
  2. Install dependencies using the project package manager.
  3. Open the project directory in your IDE.
  4. Run the recommended verification command from project docs.
  5. Confirm that base checks complete without errors.
# 1) clone
git clone https://github.com/example/openclaw.git

# 2) enter project and install deps
cd openclaw
npm install

# 3) run baseline verification
npm run lint
npm test

Chronological Setup Checklist

If you are onboarding a team, put setup into chronological tasks so everyone follows the same sequence and troubleshooting is easier. 

from datetime import datetime

timeline = [
    ("09:00", "Clone repository and install dependencies"),
    ("09:20", "Configure editor and project settings"),
    ("09:35", "Run lint + tests"),
    ("09:50", "Validate sample patch workflow"),
    ("10:10", "Document local setup notes"),
]

for at, task in timeline:
    print(f"{at} - {task}")

print("Completed:", datetime.now().isoformat(timespec="minutes"))

Verification Checklist

  • The project opens and indexes correctly in your editor
  • Core scripts execute without missing dependency errors
  • You can run at least one local check successfully
  • Patch previews show only scoped, expected file edits

Permission Safety Before You Enable Tools

During installation, you will be asked to allow file reads, command proposals, and sometimes network calls. Grant only what your current task needs. Installation is the best moment to enforce a least-privilege policy before habits form. This security approach is similar to how Luma Dream Machine Video generation handles user permissions.

  • Use project-scoped directories instead of your entire home folder.
  • Review every command that can install, delete, or modify environment state.
  • Avoid loading production secrets into local shell sessions used by automation tools.
  • Prefer temporary credentials with expiration for external APIs.

Common Issues and Fast Fixes

Most setup failures come from version drift, stale lockfiles, or partial dependency installs. Align versions with project docs, reinstall dependencies, and rerun checks in a clean terminal session. 

# reset local deps when installs get inconsistent
rm -rf node_modules package-lock.json
npm install
npm run lint && npm test

Creative AI Tools for Development

OpenClaw supports integration with creative AI platforms for generating assets and media during development. The platform works seamlessly with tools like Wan and Udio Music AI for comprehensive creative workflows.