Clawdbot(Moltbot) Tutorial: How to Install and Use OpenClaw AI Agent (Step-by-Step Guide)

Nelson Polly

Nelson Polly is an AI writer who reviews top AI apps and shares the latest AI news.

February 4, 2026 3 mins read

Clawdbot (also known as OpenClaw or Moltbot) is an open-source AI agent framework designed to automate tasks on your local computer through chat interfaces. Unlike traditional chatbots, Clawdbot can execute system commands, manage files, integrate with third-party services, and run autonomous workflows.

In this Clawdbot tutorial, you'll learn what Clawdbot is, how to install it, and practical methods to use it safely and effectively.

 What Is Clawdbot (OpenClaw / Moltbot)?

Clawdbot is a self-hosted AI automation agent that bridges messaging platforms with a local execution environment. You send commands through chat, and the agent performs tasks on your machine in real time.

Unlike cloud-only AI tools, Clawdbot runs locally, giving you full control over data, automation workflows, and integrations.

Key Features of Clawdbot

Execute terminal commands via chat

Search, read, and organize local files

Integrate with apps like email, calendars, and GitHub

Store long-term memory and preferences

Run scheduled automation tasks

Extend functionality with custom tools and scripts

 Clawdbot Tutorial: How to Install OpenClaw

1 Install Clawdbot (OpenClaw) on Your System

System Requirements

Node.js 22+

macOS or Linux (Windows requires WSL2)

API token (Claude, OpenAI, etc.)

Basic terminal knowledge

Clawdbot itself is free, but API usage may cost $10–$150 per month depending on activity.

This installs the OpenClaw gateway and launches the onboarding wizard automatically.

QuickStart – recommended for beginners

Advanced Mode – full customization

You can paste a Claude or OpenAI token, or generate one via CLI (e.g., claude setup-token).

Clawdbot supports:

WhatsApp

Telegram

Discord

Terminal UI

You'll scan a QR code to link your account.

Once installed, messages will sync across:

Terminal

Web dashboard

Messaging app

If all three respond, your AI agent is live.

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2 Run Clawdbot with Docker (Safer)

Using Docker isolates the agent from your system.

This is recommended for beginners who want extra security.

 How to Connect Messaging Platforms?

Clawdbot can connect to chat platforms through bot APIs or bridge libraries.

Common Supported Platforms

Telegram Bot API (official)

Discord bots and webhooks

Slack integrations

Terminal-based chat interface

WhatsApp integrations are possible but rely on unofficial libraries and may violate platform policies.

1 Using Clawdbot for File and System Tasks

 Example 1: Find Files via Chat

You can ask the agent:

Search for all PDF files in my Documents folder.

Clawdbot will run a system search and return results.

 Example 2: Generate System Reports

Prompt example:

Create a disk usage summary and save it as a report.

The agent can run scripts and return structured output.

2 Automate Workflows with Tools and Scripts

Clawdbot supports custom tools (similar to plugins) that automate tasks.

 Common Automation Use Cases

Email summaries

Calendar reminders

GitHub issue management

Daily system health checks

 How to Create a Custom Tool

Create a folder for the tool

Add a README or YAML description

Write a script (Python or Node.js)

Register the tool in the agent config

Once registered, Clawdbot will call the tool automatically when relevant.

3 Enable Persistent Memory

Clawdbot can store long-term memory in config files or markdown documents.

 Memory Use Cases

User preferences

Task history

Personal workflow rules

This allows the agent to behave consistently over time.

4 Schedule Tasks with Cron Jobs

Clawdbot itself doesn't require a special cron command. You can use system schedulers.

 Example Linux Cron Job

This makes Clawdbot proactive, sending reports or reminders automatically.

5 Secure Clawdbot with Sandboxing

Because Clawdbot can execute commands, security is critical.

 Recommended Security Practices

Run inside Docker or VM

Limit file system permissions

Disable destructive commands

Use a separate user account

Monitor logs and execution history

 Advanced Clawdbot Use Cases

Remote PC Automation: Control your computer through Telegram or Discord messages.

Autonomous Research Agent: Collect data, summarize documents, and generate reports automatically.

Developer Productivity Assistant: Run code, manage repositories, and debug issues through chat.

Smart Workflow Automation: Trigger scripts for marketing reports, SEO monitoring, or server alerts.

 Clawdbot Best Practices

Use a Dedicated Machine or VPS:Avoid running Clawdbot on your personal workstation.

Review Tools Before Installation: Custom tools can execute arbitrary code.

Rotate API Keys Regularly: Protect against unauthorized access.

Monitor Execution Logs: Audit actions to prevent unexpected behavior.

Pros and Cons of Clawdbot

FAQs: Clawdbot Tutorial

Is Clawdbot free?

Yes, Clawdbot is open source, but AI model API calls may cost money.

Is Clawdbot safe?

It can be safe when sandboxed, but improper configuration may expose your system.

Can I use Clawdbot on Windows?

Yes, via WSL2 or Docker.

What AI models does Clawdbot support?

OpenAI, Claude, and other providers depending on configuration.

 Conclusion

Clawdbot (OpenClaw) is one of the most advanced open-source AI agent frameworks available today. It transforms chat into a command center for your computer, enabling automation, system management, and AI-powered workflows.

However, its power comes with responsibility. Always use sandboxing, review scripts, and protect your API keys.

By following this Clawdbot tutorial, you can build a powerful AI automation assistant for productivity, development, and system automation.

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