Clawdbot (now called OpenClaw, formerly Moltbot) is an open-source AI assistant that runs on your machine or cloud. It can manage email, calendar, chat apps, and more through natural conversation.

How long does Clawdbot setup take?

DIY setup takes 30-60 minutes for basic installation. Adding integrations like WhatsApp or Gmail adds another 15-30 minutes each. Professional setup services can have you live in 24 hours.

Is Clawdbot the same as OpenClaw?

Yes. The project was renamed from Clawdbot to Moltbot in late 2025, then to OpenClaw in January 2026. All versions refer to the same AI assistant.

AI Assistants

Clawdbot Setup Guide 2026: Complete Installation Tutorial

Clawdbot (now called OpenClaw, formerly Moltbot) is the AI assistant everyone's talking about. This guide walks you through installation on Mac, Windows, or Linux, plus integrations for WhatsApp, Telegram, Gmail, and more.

Updated January 2026 • Works with Clawdbot, Moltbot, and OpenClaw

Aravind Srinivas

Founder & CEO, HyperNest Labs • Pocket Clear Founder

1. Prerequisites

Before installing Clawdbot/OpenClaw, make sure you have:

•Mac, Windows, or Linux - Any modern OS works. Mac M1/M2 recommended for best performance.
•Node.js 18+ - Required for the runtime. Check with node --version
•Anthropic API Key - OpenClaw uses Claude under the hood. Get one at console.anthropic.com
•8GB+ RAM - Recommended for smooth operation with multiple skills running

2. Installation

The easiest way to install is via npm:

npm install -g @anthropic/openclaw

Or clone from GitHub for the latest features:

git clone https://github.com/anthropics/openclaw.gitcd openclaw && npm install

Pro Tip

If you're upgrading from Clawdbot or Moltbot, your config files are compatible. Just update the package and restart.

3. First Run & Configuration

Run the setup wizard:

openclaw init

The wizard will ask for:

1.Anthropic API Key - Paste your key from the Anthropic console
2.Your name - For personalized responses
3.Timezone - For calendar and scheduling features
4.Primary use case - Helps configure default skills

After setup, start Clawdbot with openclaw start

4. Adding Integrations

Clawdbot/OpenClaw shines when connected to your daily tools. Here are the most popular integrations:

WhatsApp

Chat with your AI from your phone. Requires WhatsApp Business API or Twilio.

Full WhatsApp setup guide →

Telegram

Create a bot via BotFather and connect. Easiest messaging integration.

Telegram & Discord guide →

Gmail & Calendar

Read emails, schedule meetings, draft responses. OAuth setup required.

Email & Calendar guide →

5. Security Hardening

Running an AI assistant with access to your email, calendar, and chat requires security awareness:

•Don't expose ports publicly - Use VPN or IP allowlists
•Enable authentication - Use strong secrets for any web interfaces
•Rotate API keys regularly - Especially if you share access
•Monitor logs - Watch for unusual activity

Full security hardening guide →

6. Troubleshooting

"API key invalid"

Make sure you're using an Anthropic API key, not OpenAI. Check for trailing spaces.

"Port already in use"

Another instance is running. Kill it with pkill -f openclaw and restart.

"Integration not responding"

Check OAuth tokens haven't expired. Re-run the integration setup wizard.

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