OpenClaw is a free, open-source AI agent framework released under the MIT license. Created by Peter Steinberger, it lets you run a persistent AI assistant on your own hardware. Unlike chatbots that only respond to prompts, OpenClaw takes autonomous action: it executes code, controls a browser, manages email, and completes multi-step tasks without constant supervision. You interact with it through apps you already use, including WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and web browsers. It works with any AI model, from Claude and GPT-4o to free local models via Ollama. With over 200,000 GitHub stars, OpenClaw is one of the fastest-growing open-source AI projects of 2026.

Yes. OpenClaw is completely free to download and use under the MIT open-source license. There are no feature gates, no premium tiers, and no trial periods for the software itself. Your only running cost is the AI model. Using Ollama with local models costs nothing. Cloud APIs like Claude, GPT-4o, or Gemini typically run between $5 and $55 per month depending on usage. A fully free setup is possible using Google Gemini's free tier (1,500 requests per day) paired with Oracle Cloud's always-free VM for hosting. LaunchMyOpenClaw offers optional paid courses and setup calls, but the OpenClaw software is and always will be free.

OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that runs on your own computer or server. Think of it as a personal AI employee that works 24/7. You give it instructions in plain English, and it handles the rest: sending emails, updating spreadsheets, monitoring websites, managing social media, following up with leads, and hundreds of other tasks. It connects to the tools you already use and learns your preferences over time. Unlike SaaS automation tools like Zapier or Make, OpenClaw runs locally, so your data never leaves your machine. It supports every major AI model and costs nothing to install.

Home/FAQ

OpenClaw FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions

Browse frequently asked questions about OpenClaw AI. Get instant answers about what OpenClaw is, pricing, safety, ownership, and more.

What is OpenClaw AI?

OpenClaw is a free, open-source AI agent framework released under the MIT license.

Read full answer

Is OpenClaw free?

Yes. OpenClaw is completely free to download and use under the MIT open-source license.

Read full answer

Did OpenAI acquire OpenClaw?

No. OpenAI did not acquire OpenClaw. They are completely separate projects.

Read full answer

Is OpenClaw safe to use?

OpenClaw is safe when configured properly. The core software is fully open-source and auditable on GitHub.

Read full answer

What is OpenClaw?

OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that runs on your own computer or server.

Read full answer

Build AI Agents With People Doing the Work

Explore the community for business owners and builders interested in AI agents, vibe coding, and practical ways to make money with AI. The bridge page has the current details.

Build AI agents Vibe code apps Explore AI business models

Explore the Community See documented builds and client proof →

OpenClaw FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions

What is OpenClaw AI?

Is OpenClaw free?

Did OpenAI acquire OpenClaw?

Is OpenClaw safe to use?

What is OpenClaw?

Related Guides

Build AI Agents With People Doing the Work

Related FAQ Guides