What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is an open-source, self-hosted AI personal assistant that can actually take actions on your behalf.
The AI That Actually Does Things
Unlike traditional AI chatbots that only respond to questions, OpenClaw is an agentic AI - a system that can take actions automatically. Imagine if Claude could actually execute tasks on your computer: installing software, running scripts, managing files, monitoring websites, sending emails - all triggered by simple text commands.
Created by developer Peter Steinberger, OpenClaw runs on your own hardware (Mac Mini, VPS, or home server) and can be controlled through messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, or Slack.
The Journey: Clawdbot -> Moltbot -> OpenClaw
The project has gone through two name changes. First, it was renamed from Clawdbot to Moltbot after Anthropic raised trademark concerns about "Clawd" being too similar to "Claude".
Later, the project became OpenClaw, combining "Open" (emphasizing the open-source nature) with "Claw" (keeping the lobster heritage).
The lobster mascot remains sacred, symbolizing the project's ability to shed its old shell and grow into something new. As the team says: "Yes, the mascot is still a lobster. Some things are sacred."
Key Features
Self-Hosted & Private
Run on your own hardware. Your data never leaves your infrastructure.
Multi-Platform Messaging
Control via WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, Slack, iMessage, and more.
Persistent Memory
Remembers context across conversations - days, months, even years.
Extensible Skills
Add capabilities with simple Markdown files. No coding required.
Flexible AI Backend
Use Claude, GPT-4, Gemini, or run free with local Ollama models.
Browser Automation
Can control a web browser to fill forms, scrape data, and more.
How It Works
Install OpenClaw on Your Server
Run on a Mac Mini, cheap VPS ($5/mo), or any machine with Docker.
Connect Your AI Provider
Add your API key for Claude, GPT-4, or use Ollama for free local AI.
Link Your Messaging Apps
Connect WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, or other platforms.
Chat & Automate
Send messages to your bot and watch it handle tasks for you.
Security Considerations
OpenClaw requires deep access to your computer to function - including the ability to read/write files, run commands, and control browsers. This power comes with risks:
- Never expose your OpenClaw dashboard to the public internet
- Use strong authentication and API key management
- Run on isolated machines when possible
- Regularly review conversation logs and actions taken
- Keep your installation updated
Ready to Get Started?
Install OpenClaw in minutes and start automating your life.