Getting Started with OpenClaw Onboarding

I have spent many afternoons wrestling with setup scripts that just would not run. It is frustrating when you want to try a new tool but get stuck in configuration files before you even see a dashboard. I prefer tools that get out of the way and let me start building. OpenClaw offers a few ways to get running quickly so you can focus on your work.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have these items ready based on your setup:

• Operating System: macOS, Linux, or Windows (via WSL2).
• Hardware: Apple silicon or Intel Mac (if using the macOS app).
• Custom Provider Details: Base URL, API key, and model ID (if using a provider not listed by default).

Quick Start

You can choose between a terminal-based setup or a native macOS application.

Option 1: CLI Wizard

The CLI wizard is the best choice if you want full control over your Gateway, workspace, channels, and skills. Open your terminal and run:

openclaw onboard

Option 2: macOS App

If you prefer a guided experience on a Mac, use the OpenClaw app. It provides a visual walkthrough for your first run.

Using a Custom Provider

If your specific provider is not in the default list, you can still connect it. Select Custom Provider in the CLI wizard. You will need to provide these four pieces of information:

1. Pick the compatibility type: OpenAI-compatible, Anthropic-compatible, or Unknown for auto-detection.
2. Enter the base URL and your API key.
3. Provide the model ID and an optional alias.
4. Choose an Endpoint ID so you can run multiple custom endpoints at once.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during the setup of a custom endpoint, here are two things to check:

• Compatibility Detection: If you are unsure which API standard your provider uses, select the Unknown option. The wizard will attempt to auto-detect the correct settings for you.
• Endpoint Conflicts: Ensure you assign a unique Endpoint ID if you are configuring more than one custom provider. This prevents configuration overlaps in your Gateway.

Next Steps

If you need more help with your specific environment, talk to the AI Setup Assistant.

What’s Next

• Onboarding Wizard (CLI)
• openclaw onboard command
• Onboarding (macOS App)