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HowOpenClaw

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.

Local Models (Ollama)

Run AI fully offline with Ollama. Hardware tiers, model picks, and the hybrid local + cloud pattern.

MCP — Model Context Protocol

Add MCP servers, scope tools per-agent, debug missing tools, and use OAuth-backed remote servers.

OAuth Providers (Claude Max, Codex)

Use your Claude Max or ChatGPT Plus subscription with OpenClaw instead of buying API credit.

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 22.19 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.