Quick Start
Get ClawdBot running in 5 minutes
Requirements
Before you start, make sure you have:
- Node.js 22 or higher
- Operating System: macOS, Windows (WSL2), or Linux
- AI Model Access: Anthropic Claude or OpenAI subscription
- Messaging App: WhatsApp, Telegram, or Discord account
Don't have Node.js? The one-liner installer will install it for you automatically.
Installation
Choose your preferred installation method:
Option 1: One-liner (Recommended)
The easiest way - installs everything including Node.js:
curl -fsSL https://clawd.bot/install.sh | bashOption 2: npm Global Install
If you already have Node.js 22+:
npm install -g clawdbot@latest
clawdbot onboardOption 3: pnpm
pnpm add -g clawdbot@latest
clawdbot onboardOption 4: From Source (Hackable)
For developers who want to customize:
git clone https://github.com/clawdbot/clawdbot.git
cd clawdbot
pnpm install
pnpm build
clawdbot onboardOnboarding Wizard
After installation, run the onboarding wizard:
clawdbot onboard --install-daemonThe wizard will guide you through:
- Setting up your AI model (Claude or OpenAI)
- Configuring the Gateway service
- Installing the background daemon (launchd/systemd)
- Basic preferences and settings
Install Daemon
The --install-daemon flag sets up ClawdBot to run automatically in the background. It will start on boot and stay running.
Pair WhatsApp
Connect your WhatsApp account to control ClawdBot:
clawdbot channels loginThis will display a QR code. Scan it with your WhatsApp:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone
- Go to Settings → Linked Devices
- Tap "Link a Device"
- Scan the QR code shown in terminal
Note: For Telegram, Discord, or other platforms, see the Channels documentation.
Send Your First Message
Once paired, send a message to yourself on WhatsApp:
Hello ClawdBot!ClawdBot will respond! Try these commands:
What can you do?- See capabilitiesWhat's the weather today?- Get informationRemind me to call Mom at 5pm- Set remindersCheck my calendar for tomorrow- Calendar access/help- Show available commands
Slash Commands
ClawdBot supports slash commands for quick actions:
/activation always- Always respond to messages/activation mention- Only respond when @mentioned/skills- List available skills/status- Check ClawdBot status
Next Steps
Congratulations! ClawdBot is now running. Here's what to explore next:
Platform-Specific Guides
Configure More Channels
- Telegram Setup
- Discord Setup
- iMessage Setup (macOS only)
Advanced Configuration
Useful Commands
# Start the gateway manually
clawdbot gateway --port 18789
# Check status
clawdbot doctor
# Send a test message
clawdbot message send --target +1234567890 --message "Hello"
# View logs
clawdbot logs