What You Need Before Getting Started

OpenClaw is a dedicated AI automation system that runs 24/7 to manage Discord, workflows, and AI operations. To ensure stability, security, and performance, the following requirements must be completed before installation.

1️⃣ Dedicated Machine (Required)

🖥 Apple Mac Mini (Factory Reset)

OpenClaw must run on a separate, dedicated computer.

Requirements:

Apple Mac Mini (Intel or M-series)
Factory reset (fresh install of macOS)
Stable high-speed internet connection
Always plugged in
Sleep mode disabled
Admin access enabled

Why a separate machine?

Prevents system conflicts
Protects API credentials
Ensures 24/7 uptime
Allows remote management

2️⃣ Anthropic API Access (Required)

OpenClaw runs on Anthropic’s AI models.

🔑 You Must Have:

An active Anthropic account
API billing enabled
API credits (tokens) purchased
A generated API key

Platform: https://console.anthropic.com

⚠️ Important:

Chat subscriptions are NOT API access.
API usage is billed per token.
Estimated monthly usage: $50–$500+ depending on activity.

3️⃣ Remote Access Software (Required)

💻 AnyDesk Installation

To manage OpenClaw remotely, install:

AnyDesk on the Mac Mini
AnyDesk on your primary computer

Enable:

Full permissions
Unattended access
Auto-start on boot

This allows secure remote control without needing a monitor or mouse connected.

4️⃣ Discord Bot Setup (If Using Discord)

You will need:

A Discord account
A Discord Developer Application
Bot Token
Message Content Intent enabled
Bot invited to your server

OpenClaw must remain running on the Mac Mini for the bot to appear online.

5️⃣ Environment Configuration

OpenClaw requires secure storage of credentials via environment variables.

You will need:

Anthropic API Key
Discord Bot Token (if applicable)
Any additional platform API keys (e.g., GoHighLevel)

API keys must NEVER be changed inside chat.

All credentials must be stored securely in a configuration file.

6️⃣ System Stability Settings

On the Mac Mini:

Disable sleep mode
Prevent hard drive sleep
Enable “Wake for network access”
Disable automatic logout
Allow background processes

OpenClaw is designed to run continuously.

Estimated Ongoing Costs

OpenClaw itself is software, but AI processing incurs usage fees.

Typical monthly AI usage:

Light Use: $50–$100
Moderate Automation: $100–$300
Heavy Automation: $300–$800+

Usage depends on:

Message volume
Automation complexity
AI model selection

Summary Checklist

Before installation, you must have:

✔ Dedicated factory-reset Mac Mini

✔ Stable internet connection

✔ Anthropic API account with billing enabled

✔ API key generated

✔ AnyDesk installed with full permissions

✔ Discord bot created (if applicable)

✔ System sleep disabled

Once these requirements are complete, OpenClaw can be installed and configured for 24/7 AI operation.

Hey there—welcome in!