Guides

Install OpenClaw

Your computer

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

Install OpenClaw

PowerShell

Start → type PowerShell → open Windows PowerShell. Do not run as administrator unless the installer asks.

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

Paste the whole command and follow the official installer’s prompts.

PowerShell 
& ([scriptblock]::Create((iwr -useb https://openclaw.ai/install.ps1))) -NoOnboard

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

Connect a model

In the new window, paste:

PowerShell 
openclaw onboard --install-daemon

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

Open chat

In the same window, run:

PowerShell 
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.

Choose a use case
If something goes wrong

The openclaw command was not found

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

Chat does not open or reply

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

PowerShell 
openclaw gateway status
openclaw doctor

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

Official installation help
I prefer a desktop installer

Download Windows Hub below → open OpenClaw Companion from Start → Set up locally. It uses a separate Linux environment: do not mix installations; install skills where the agent runs.

Windows Hub
Sources

OpenClaw Install · Getting started.