If you plan to install OpenClaw locally, make sure your system meets the following requirements. If you choose the cloud option like Kimi Claw, you can skip this section entirely.

System requirements

• Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit)
• At least 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended for stable npm builds)
• Stable internet connection
• Administrator privileges for initial setup if you choose WSL2
• For OpenClaw WSL2: virtualization must be enabled in BIOS/UEFI

Required software

• Node.js 22.14 or higher. OpenClaw requires a modern Node.js runtime. Download it from nodejs.org or install via the onboarding script.
• Git for Windows (optional but recommended). Some npm packages and skills depend on Git.

Method 1: Install OpenClaw on Windows using PowerShell

Compared to WSL2, the PowerShell method requires fewer steps and no Linux environment. A single command downloads OpenClaw, checks your Node.js version, and launches the onboarding wizard. This method works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Step 1: Install and run your OpenClaw

Windows restricts script execution by default to protect your system. Before installing OpenClaw, you must allow PowerShell to execute local scripts by running this “safety switch” command:

Then, run the following command:

After running the command, you should see output similar to the screenshot below. Close and reopen PowerShell to refresh your system PATH before proceeding to onboarding.

Step 2: Ensure risky note & select onboarding mode

Select Yes to acknowledge the risk and continue.

Next, select QuickStart to quickly start onboarding. You can adjust settings later, or choose Manual for full configuration.

Step 3: Configure and authenticate your AI model

1. Select Moonshot AI as model/auth provider

2. Authenticate and configure your AI model

To connect OpenClaw, activate your Kimi API Key via the Kimi Platform. While a $5rechargeearnsyoua$5 bonus voucher, we recommend $20+ to unlock Tier 2 access. This reduces latency and ensures that your OpenClaw agent handles complex, multi-step tasks.

3. Create a Kimi API key

Access the API Keys section and click Create API Key. Note that you should keep your API Key in a secure and accessible place. It only shows once when you create it.

4. Enter your API key and select the default model

When the onboarding wizard prompts you, paste your unique API key into the PowerShell/Terminal window.

When asked to choose a default model, select moonshot/kimi-k2.5 (or choose “Keep current” if it’s already highlighted). This model provides the best balance of speed and reasoning for agentic tasks.

Step 4: Select channel

Choose which app you want to connect to your OpenClaw. If you have no idea, just skip it.

Step 5: Configure for Performance

Click Yes to configure, or No to skip.

Step 6: Enable Hooks

Choose a method to chat with your bot, then wait for it to start running.

Step 7: Run Your OpenClaw

After all the above is done, enjoy your OpenClaw.