OpenClaw Setup Guide Skill

Help users install and configure OpenClaw from scratch. Covers installation, channel connection, skill setup, and first automation workflow.

What This Skill Does

Guides a new OpenClaw user through:

1. Installing OpenClaw on their machine (Mac/Linux/Windows WSL)
2. Running the onboarding wizard
3. Connecting messaging channels (Telegram, Discord, WhatsApp, Slack)
4. Installing and configuring skills
5. Setting up their first automation workflow
6. Configuring heartbeats and cron jobs
7. Setting up memory and identity files

Usage

When a user asks for help setting up OpenClaw, follow these steps in order:

Step 1: System Check

# Check OS and prerequisites
uname -a
node --version  # Need Node.js 18+
git --version

Step 2: Install OpenClaw

curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bash
openclaw onboard --install-daemon

Step 3: Connect a Channel

# For Telegram (most common)
openclaw channels add telegram
# Follow prompts for bot token from @BotFather

# For Discord
openclaw channels add discord
# Provide bot token from Discord Developer Portal

Step 4: Configure Identity

Create these files in the workspace:

• SOUL.md — Agent personality and behavior
• USER.md — Information about the human
• AGENTS.md — Operating procedures
• IDENTITY.md — Name, emoji, avatar

Step 5: Install Skills

# Browse available skills
openclaw skills search <keyword>

# Install a skill
openclaw skills install <skill-name>

Step 6: Set Up Automation

• Configure heartbeat interval in openclaw config
• Set up cron jobs for recurring tasks
• Create HEARTBEAT.md for proactive behaviors

Step 7: First Workflow Test

Send a message to your agent on the connected channel. Try:

• "Search the web for [topic]"
• "Read and summarize [file]"
• "Set a reminder for [time]"

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

• Node.js version too old: nvm install 22 && nvm use 22
• Permission denied: sudo chown -R $USER ~/.openclaw
• Bot not responding: Check openclaw status and openclaw gateway logs
• Channel connection failed: Verify token, check firewall/proxy settings

Requirements

• Node.js 18+ (22 recommended)
• 2GB RAM minimum
• macOS, Linux, or Windows with WSL2
• Internet connection for API calls

Cost

• OpenClaw itself: Free (open source)
• AI model API: ~$5-50/month depending on usage
• Hosting (optional): $5-20/month for always-on