๐Ÿš€Setup & Installation

How to Install OpenClaw with Docker

Intermediate20-45 minutesUpdated 2025-01-20

Docker is the fastest way to get OpenClaw running with consistent, reproducible deployments. This guide covers everything from creating a docker-compose.yml file to configuring volume mounts and restart policies. You'll have a containerized OpenClaw instance running in under 30 minutes, with proper networking and data persistence.

Why This Is Hard to Do Yourself

These are the common pitfalls that trip people up.

๐Ÿณ

Docker networking pitfalls

Bridge networks, port mapping, DNS resolution between containers

๐Ÿ“ฆ

Image version sprawl

Multiple Docker images, no clear "official" tag, breaking changes between versions

๐Ÿ’พ

Volume mount confusion

Config, data, and skill directories all need correct mounts or data is lost on restart

๐Ÿ”„

Container restart policies

Default containers don't restart on crash or reboot

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1

Install Docker Desktop or Engine

Step 2

Create docker-compose.yml

Step 3

Configure environment variables

Warning: Never use the `latest` tag in production. Pin to a specific version like `openclaw/openclaw:2.4.1` to avoid unexpected breaking changes.

Step 4

Create config and data directories

Step 5

Launch with Docker Compose

Step 6

Verify the installation

Docker Giving You Trouble?

Our Docker specialists handle networking, volumes, and compose configs daily. Get a production-hardened Docker setup with proper restart policies, health checks, and monitoring.

Get matched with a specialist who can help.

Sign Up for Expert Help โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions