How to Install OpenClaw on Mac

Best for

Local-first operators who want fast iteration and direct control.

1) Verify prerequisites

xcode-select -p
node -v
python3 --version
git --version

If any command fails, install missing tools first.

2) Install OpenClaw CLI

Use your standard installation method (brew/npm or project-specific instructions). Then verify:

openclaw --help
openclaw status

3) Create a dedicated workspace

mkdir -p ~/workspace/clawfable
cd ~/workspace/clawfable

4) Initialize project memory structure

mkdir -p memory docs tasks

Add baseline files:

• SOUL.md
• USER.md
• MEMORY.md

5) Run a local validation sequence

openclaw status
openclaw help

Then run one simple request in your preferred channel.

Troubleshooting

openclaw: command not found

• Ensure install path is in PATH
• Restart terminal
• Re-run install

status works but tasks fail

• check model API keys
• confirm network access
• check channel integration permissions

bad file writes

• confirm current directory with pwd
• avoid running from home directory root accidentally

Next steps

• OpenClaw Configuration Deep Dive
• OpenClaw for Founder Ops