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Complete OpenClaw Deployment Guide: From VPS to Production

Deploying OpenClaw doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you are using a VPS or your own hardware, this guide will walk you through the process.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have:

  • A server with at least 4GB RAM (8GB recommended for larger models)
  • Docker and Docker Compose installed
  • A domain name (optional but recommended for SSL)
  • API keys for your preferred LLM provider

Step 1: Clone the Repository

Start by cloning the official OpenClaw repository to your server:

git clone https://github.com/openclaw/openclaw.git
cd openclaw

Step 2: Configure Environment Variables

Create a .env file from the template:

cp .env.example .env

Edit the .env file and add your API keys and configuration settings.

Step 3: Launch with Docker Compose

Running OpenClaw with Docker is the recommended way for production:

docker-compose up -d

Step 4: Verify Deployment

Once the containers are running, you can access the OpenClaw dashboard at http://your-server-ip:3000.

Stay tuned for more advanced configuration guides!

By CompareClaw TeamUpdated Feb 2026