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OpenClaw overview

OpenClaw helps you run a personal AI assistant on your own infrastructure. This section is the fastest path from zero to a working assistant with memory, Skills, and scheduled automation.
This repository currently contains two tracks: the current OpenClaw tutorial and a preserved set of legacy Trellis workflow docs. If your goal is to deploy a personal AI assistant, start here.

What you will build

  • A self-hosted AI assistant that runs on your own machine or server
  • A persistent assistant with memory, personality, and scheduled checks
  • A setup you can extend with Skills, tools, and custom workflows

Before you start

  • A Linux server or always-on machine is recommended
  • An API key for the model provider you plan to use
  • Telegram is the easiest chat channel if you want to follow the tutorial as written

Follow the 7-day path

Day 1: Meet OpenClaw

Understand how a personal AI assistant differs from a normal chat app.

Day 2: Build in 10 minutes

Deploy the base system and send your first message.

Day 3: Give it a soul

Define identity, tone, and long-term behavior.

Day 4: Connect tools and data

Add channels, tools, and external context.

Day 5: Install Skills

Extend your assistant with reusable capabilities.

Day 6: Configure heartbeat and memory

Make the assistant proactive and persistent.

Day 7: Advanced workflows

Customize behavior, automation, and long-running routines.

Resources

Jump to the main links for repository, community, Skills, and follow-up reading.
If you are starting from scratch, go to Day 1: Meet OpenClaw. If you already know why you want a personal AI assistant, skip to Day 2: Build in 10 minutes.