OpenClaw Setup: Full Tutorial for Beginners 2026 | Code with Beto

OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI gateway that connects messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, iMessage, and Slack to autonomous AI agents running on a real machine. This video shows how to deploy OpenClaw quickly on a virtual private server (VPS) using Hostinger, avoiding complex server management and security risks.

If you want to run an AI agent that executes tasks 24/7, automates work, and interacts through your favorite chat apps, this tutorial is for you. You'll learn choosing a VPS plan, setting up Docker, deploying OpenClaw, creating a Telegram bot, and configuring your OpenAI API key safely.

What's inside

Why use a VPS instead of a dedicated machine for OpenClaw
Selecting a Hostinger VPS plan and server location
Setting up Ubuntu and Docker on the VPS
Deploying OpenClaw using Hostinger’s Docker manager
Creating and connecting a Telegram bot with OpenClaw
Approving Telegram access inside the Docker container
Configuring OpenClaw with your own OpenAI API key
Restarting the VPS to apply changes and testing the bot

Why use a VPS instead of a dedicated machine for OpenClaw

Buying dedicated hardware like a Mac mini for your AI agent is expensive upfront and requires managing security, updates, and physical hardware. If you lose interest or misconfigure something, you risk owning an unused, vulnerable machine.

A VPS offers a cloud-based dedicated CPU and RAM with 24/7 uptime, full control, and no physical hardware. Hostinger makes it easy by providing preconfigured OpenClaw VPS plans, so you avoid server headaches and security risks. You can upgrade your VPS anytime for more power or storage.

Selecting a Hostinger VPS plan and server location

I recommend the KVM2 plan on Hostinger, which includes 8 GB RAM, 100 GB SSD, and 2 virtual CPU cores - enough for running OpenClaw and additional apps. You can pick any server location closest to you; the example uses a US-based server.

Hostinger offers a 10% discount on plans longer than 12 months with the promo code "withBeto." You can also choose a VPS with OpenClaw preconfigured or opt to use your own API keys for more control and lower cost.

Setting up Ubuntu and Docker on the VPS

After selecting the plan and location, you create a root password or add an SSH key for secure access. Once the VPS is ready, you connect via SSH using the root credentials.

Inside the Hostinger dashboard, you install Docker through the Docker manager feature. This simplifies container management without manual command-line installation.

Deploying OpenClaw using Hostinger’s Docker manager

In the Docker manager catalog, search for "OpenClaw" and deploy the container. During deployment, you receive an OpenClaw gateway token, which you must save securely. This token is required to connect to your OpenClaw instance through the web interface.

Once deployed, you can open the OpenClaw web UI, paste the gateway token, and log in to start interacting with your AI agent.

Creating and connecting a Telegram bot with OpenClaw

I guides you to create a Telegram bot using the BotFather bot. You send the command, choose a name and username, and receive a Telegram access token.

Paste this token into the OpenClaw deployment to link your Telegram bot. This allows you to chat with the AI agent directly from Telegram.

Approving Telegram access inside the Docker container

To approve Telegram user access, you must run a specific command inside the OpenClaw Docker container. Since OpenClaw runs inside Docker, commands must be executed with targeting the container name.

If the command fails, restarting the VPS usually resolves the issue. After approval, you can send messages to your bot and receive responses.

Configuring OpenClaw with your own OpenAI API key

Instead of using Hostinger’s default AI model, you can configure OpenClaw to use your own OpenAI or Anthropic API key. This is done by running the onboard CLI command inside the VPS terminal and entering your API key.

I stress setting a budget limit on your OpenAI account to avoid unexpected costs. The example sets a $30 monthly limit to control spending.

Restarting the VPS to apply changes and testing the bot

After configuration changes, a VPS reboot is necessary to apply them. Once restarted, you can test your bot by sending messages from Telegram or other connected apps.

I demonstrate asking the bot what AI model it is using, confirming the custom API key setup. You can also set up cron jobs or reminders for automated tasks.

Resources

CourseReact Native course

Fundamentals through shipping: the concepts behind the prompts, with lifetime access.

Premium resourcePro membership

Get access to exclusive tutorials, live sessions, and community support.

Let's connect!