The simplest and fastest way to setup OpenClaw

2026-02-22 · Source: Ollama Blog · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Software Development & Engineering · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

Ollama 0.17 introduces a simplified setup for OpenClaw, a personal AI assistant designed to manage tasks like email and calendar via messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or iMessage. Running on local hardware, OpenClaw can now be installed and configured with a single command: `ollama launch openclaw --model kimi-k2.5:cloud`. This process requires Ollama 0.17+, Node.js, and a Mac or Linux system (or Windows Subsystem for Linux). The setup automatically installs OpenClaw and, for cloud models, integrates web search capabilities. Users can also connect OpenClaw to various messaging platforms and select from recommended cloud models like `kimi-k2.5:cloud` or local models such as `glm-4.7-flash`, which require approximately 25 GB of GPU VRAM.

Key takeaway

For AI Engineers or power users seeking to deploy a personal AI assistant on their own hardware, OpenClaw's new single-command setup with Ollama 0.17 significantly reduces installation complexity. You should consider running OpenClaw in an isolated environment due to its ability to read files and execute actions, especially if enabling tools. Evaluate cloud models for optimal performance with agents requiring long context lengths, or prepare for substantial GPU VRAM requirements for local models.

Key insights

OpenClaw, a personal AI assistant, now offers simplified, single-command setup via Ollama 0.17 for local execution.

Principles

• Local AI assistants enhance privacy.
• Simplified deployment drives adoption.

Method

Install Ollama 0.17+, Node.js, then execute `ollama launch openclaw --model [model_name]` in the terminal. Configure messaging channels via `openclaw configure --section channels`.

In practice

• Automate inbox management with OpenClaw.
• Integrate AI tasks into existing chat apps.
• Utilize cloud models for full context length.

Topics

• OpenClaw
• Personal AI Assistants
• Ollama Integration
• Local LLM Deployment
• AI Agent Security

Best for: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Software Engineer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Ollama Blog.