Reference
OpenClaw quick reference — all CLI commands, flags, and key concepts in one place. Bookmark this when you need something fast.
The Reference section is your quick-lookup guide when you need an answer fast. Find CLI commands, understand terminology, troubleshoot problems, or check costs. Most answers are under 200 words. For hands-on learning, see the Course.
CLI Cheatsheet
Every OpenClaw command you'll actually use, in one place.
Key Concepts
One-line definitions for every term OpenClaw uses.
Fix It When It Breaks
Diagnose and fix the most common OpenClaw problems. Start here when something stops working.
Pricing & Cost
OpenClaw is free. Here's what AI API usage actually costs and how to keep it low.
System Requirements
Supported OS, Node.js versions, hardware minimums, and Docker support.
FAQ
- Where do I find the OpenClaw CLI commands?
- The full CLI cheatsheet lives at /reference/cli. It covers the gateway, channels, cron, skills, models, plugins, devices, and config commands — with real output examples for the ones you'll use most. Run `openclaw --help` locally for the up-to-date list bundled with your install.
- What are OpenClaw's system requirements?
- Node.js 22.16 or newer (Node 24 recommended), 2 GB RAM minimum (4 GB comfortable), and a 64-bit OS — macOS, Linux, or Windows. Apple Silicon, ARM64 servers, Raspberry Pi 5, and Docker all work. iMessage is the only channel that requires macOS specifically. See system requirements for tiered specs by use case.
- How much does OpenClaw cost?
- OpenClaw itself is free and open source — no subscription, no license fee, no usage cap. You pay only for AI API calls to your chosen provider (OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, or NVIDIA), typically $1–10/month for personal use. With local Ollama models the cost is $0. Full breakdown at pricing.
- Where do I troubleshoot when OpenClaw isn't working?
- Start at /reference/troubleshooting. It covers the common failures — gateway won't start, bot not responding, pairing fails, cron not firing — with exact commands and step-by-step fixes. If your issue isn't there, run `openclaw doctor --fix` to auto-repair config and plugin issues.