How to Install OpenClaw via npm?

If you already have Node.js 22+ installed, you can install OpenClaw directly via npm. This is the fastest method and gives you the most control over the installation.

The global npm install puts the openclaw binary in your PATH. After installation, run the onboarding wizard to configure your model and messenger.

The npm method is ideal for developers who want to integrate OpenClaw into existing Node.js projects or manage it alongside other global packages. You get direct access to the OpenClaw API from your own scripts.

To update, simply run npm update with the global flag. To install a specific version, append @version to the package name. You can also use npx to run OpenClaw without installing it globally — useful for quick testing.

Note: the one-line install script (curl method) is recommended for most users as it handles Node.js installation and system configuration automatically. Use the npm method only if you prefer manual control.

npm install -g openclaw
openclaw onboard

# Update to latest version
npm update -g openclaw

# Or install specific version
npm install -g openclaw@2.5.0

# Run without installing
npx openclaw onboard