Install OpenClaw on Linux

Use the official installer for a workstation, WSL2 distribution, or a single-user server:

curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash

Install the user service

The managed Linux service runs through systemd in your user context:

openclaw onboard --install-daemon

Do not switch between root and a normal user during setup. Their PATH, state directory, service manager, and configuration are different.

Verify each layer

openclaw --version
openclaw gateway status
openclaw gateway probe
openclaw doctor

Expected result

The runtime is running, the connectivity probe is successful, and doctor reports no blocking errors.

Server safety checklist

• Keep the Gateway bound to loopback unless you have configured an authenticated remote access path.
• Do not expose a control port directly to the public internet.
• Store provider keys in the supported credential flow, not in shell history or a public repository.
• Start with a dedicated Unix user and least-privilege filesystem access.

If you need container isolation or a repeatable headless deployment, continue with the Docker guide.