OpenClaw Hosting Guide

Where to run OpenClaw: You can run OpenClaw on your own machine (Mac, Linux, Windows), on a VPS for 24/7 uptime, or use managed hosting for zero-ops. OpenClaw itself is free; costs come from hosting and optional LLM API usage.

Overview

OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI agent platform-you choose where it runs. Whether you use a Mac Mini at home, a Linux server, a Windows PC (e.g. via WSL2), a Raspberry Pi, or a cloud VPS, the same OpenClaw Gateway gives you one agent across WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, Slack, and 15+ messaging platforms. This guide helps you pick the right hosting option and points you to setup, cost, and optimization resources.

Runtime requirements (from official docs): Node.js 22+; supported OS: macOS, Linux, Windows (WSL2 recommended). Deployment options include local machine, VPS (e.g. AWS, DigitalOcean, Linode, Hetzner), cloud (AWS/GCP/Azure), and Docker containers.

Hosting Options at a Glance

Choose based on your needs: maximum control and zero recurring cost (self-hosted), 24/7 availability and low maintenance (VPS), or hands-off operation (managed hosting).

🖥️ Self-Hosted (Your Machine)

Run OpenClaw on your Mac, Linux box, or Windows PC. Best for personal use, learning, and full data control. No monthly hosting fee; you pay only for LLM API usage if you use cloud models (or $0 with local models like Ollama).

  • Zero hosting cost
  • Full privacy and control
  • Uptime depends on your machine
Installation Guide →

☁️ VPS (Virtual Private Server)

Deploy OpenClaw on a VPS for 24/7 availability. Popular with individuals and small teams. Typical cost $6–24/month for a droplet/instance plus API usage. We compare providers and give step-by-step deployment guides.

  • 24/7 uptime
  • Scalable and flexible
  • You manage updates and security
VPS Comparison →

🏢 Managed Hosting

Let a provider run and maintain OpenClaw for you. Ideal if you want zero server management, automatic patching, and support. Pricing typically $49–199/month depending on tier and features.

  • No server administration
  • Auto-updates and security
  • Higher monthly cost
Managed Options →

Hosting Hub: Guides & Tools

Use these pages to choose a provider, estimate costs, and tune performance.

💰 Cost Calculator

Estimate total cost of ownership: hosting + LLM API. Compare OpenClaw vs ChatGPT Plus and see savings for different usage levels.

Open Cost Calculator →

⚡ Performance Optimization

Tips to run OpenClaw faster and more reliably: resource limits, Docker tuning, and scaling considerations.

Optimization Guide →

System Requirements (Summary)

Regardless of where you host, ensure your environment meets these requirements (see official install docs for the latest):

  • Node.js: Version 22 or newer
  • OS: macOS, Linux, or Windows (WSL2 recommended on Windows)
  • Deployment: Local machine, VPS, cloud (AWS/GCP/Azure), or Docker
  • Optional: API keys for Anthropic Claude, OpenAI, Google Gemini, DeepSeek; or local models via Ollama/LM Studio for zero API cost

For production and 24/7 use, plan for at least 1 GB RAM and stable network; heavier usage or multiple channels may require more. See DigitalOcean, AWS, and Docker guides for concrete specs.

Security When Hosting

OpenClaw can execute tasks and access resources on the host. Always follow security best practices: bind the Gateway to localhost (never expose the port publicly), use a firewall, store API keys in environment variables, and audit skills from the marketplace. For a full checklist, see our security best practices and security overview.

Key Resources

Community Links