How to Run OpenClaw 24/7 (Always-On AI Assistant)
Keep your AI assistant running around the clock. Three methods from free to foolproof.
😫 The Problem
Your AI assistant is great when your computer is on. But when you close your laptop or leave home, it stops working. You want an always-available AI that responds anytime.
✨ The Solution
Run OpenClaw on hardware that never sleeps. Three approaches: use an old computer at home (free), rent cloud server space ($3-5/month), or use a dedicated device like Mac Mini ($599 one-time). Pick based on your budget and reliability needs.
Step by Step
Decide your priority: Free but DIY (old laptop), cheap and easy (cloud VPS), or set-and-forget (dedicated device).
Option A - Old Computer: Find any laptop or desktop gathering dust. Install OpenClaw. Disable sleep in power settings. Connect to home internet. Done - free 24/7 AI.
Option B - Cloud VPS ($3-5/month): Sign up at digitalocean.com or hetzner.com. Create a $4/month droplet with Ubuntu. Run the one-line installer. Always online, accessible anywhere.
Option C - Mac Mini ($599): Buy the base model. Install OpenClaw. Enable 'Prevent sleep'. This is the most reliable home setup.
Enable auto-restart: Configure OpenClaw to start automatically after power outages or reboots. Settings > General > Start at login.
Set up health monitoring: Use the built-in heartbeat feature to get alerts if your AI goes offline. Settings > Notifications > Uptime alerts.
Configure remote access: Enable the web dashboard to check on your AI from anywhere. Settings > Web Interface > Enable.
Test your setup: Shut down everything, wait 10 minutes, then message your AI. If it responds, your 24/7 setup works.
Plan for updates: Schedule automatic updates during off-hours. Settings > Updates > Auto-update at 4am.
Enjoy always-on AI: Your assistant now works while you sleep, responds when traveling, and never misses a message.
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