Install OpenClaw

Your computer

You need a computer, internet and model access. OpenClaw is free; model replies may cost money.

Terminal

⌘ + Space → type Terminal → Enter.

Copy the command → paste here: ⌘ + V → Enter.

Paste the whole command. If the installer asks for your Mac password, type it → Enter. Characters will not appear.

Terminal

curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash -s -- --no-onboard

Installation finished? Close and reopen the window the same way. For errors, see the help below.

Connect a model

In the new window, paste:

Terminal

openclaw onboard --install-daemon

Read the access notice. Do not connect personal accounts or important folders yet.
If asked for a mode, choose QuickStart. Use arrow keys, then Enter.
Choose a provider, such as OpenRouter. Create a key with a spending limit; paste it into API key, not chat. Get an OpenRouter key.
Choose a model. Skip messengers and skills; leave the background service enabled.

In the same window, run:

Terminal

openclaw dashboard

Chat opens in your browser. Send this there, not in the command window:

OpenClaw chat

Reply with one sentence: “Ready to go.” Do not use tools or change anything on the computer.

Got a reply? Chat works. Use the same command next time. Integrations need separate setup.

If something goes wrong

Reopen the window; check that step 1 finished. Do not add random paths or disable protection.

Run these checks. Service stopped? Return to step 2. Model error? Check the key, balance and model.

Terminal

openclaw gateway status
openclaw doctor

Share the error for help, not keys or a page URL containing a token.

I prefer a desktop installer

Requires macOS 15+. Find the latest release with OpenClaw-…dmg → install → choose This Mac. No Mac file? Check earlier releases.

Sources