OpenClaw Security Best Practices (2026 Edition)

Golden rule: Never expose the gateway port to the public internet. Full baseline: original best practices guide.

Top 10 practices for 2026

  1. Bind gateway to localhost; use Tailscale/SSH tunnels (network).
  2. Store API keys in env vars, not repos (credentials).
  3. Run openclaw doctor after every upgrade (2026 releases).
  4. Audit ClawHub skills before install (skills audit).
  5. Enable sandboxing for untrusted skills (Docker).
  6. Log and review agent actions (monitoring guide).
  7. Defend against prompt injection (prompt injection).
  8. Separate personal vs work agents (agents).
  9. Back up and encrypt memory directories (backup).
  10. Track CVEs (vulnerabilities).

Enterprise additions

Teams should add SSO/VPN requirements, change management, and data residency reviews—see enterprise privacy worksheet and printable checklist.