OpenClaw VPS Requirements: What Server Specs Do You Need?
Publisher: Psychz Networks, May 15,2026OpenClaw can run on a Linux server or cloud VPS, but the right server size depends on how you plan to use it. A small VPS may be enough for testing, while an always-on OpenClaw deployment with browser automation, integrations, workspace files, logs, and background workflows should have more CPU, RAM, and storage headroom.
For most users, a practical starting point is a VPS with 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40–80 GB NVMe storage. Heavier OpenClaw deployments, especially those using browser automation, multiple integrations, or several long-running workflows, should start closer to 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80–160 GB NVMe storage.
| OpenClaw use case | CPU | RAM | Storage | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Testing or learning OpenClaw | 1–2 vCPU | 2–4 GB | 25–40 GB NVMe | Short experiments and light testing |
| Personal always-on assistant | 2 vCPU | 8 GB | 40–80 GB NVMe | Most individual users |
| Browser automation or multiple integrations | 4 vCPU | 16 GB | 80–160 GB NVMe | Heavier workflows and scheduled tasks |
| Team or shared OpenClaw agent | 4–8 vCPU | 16–32 GB | 160+ GB NVMe | Business or multi-user environments |
| Local models or heavy AI workloads | Dedicated CPU or GPU server | 32+ GB | 250+ GB NVMe | Advanced deployments running local models |
These are practical VPS sizing recommendations, not fixed OpenClaw limits. OpenClaw’s official Linux server documentation states that the OpenClaw Gateway can run on a Linux server or cloud VPS, but actual resource usage depends on the number of agents, tools, browser sessions, integrations, workspace files, and logs you run.
What Is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI agent platform that can run on your own machine, server, or VPS. In a VPS deployment, the OpenClaw Gateway runs in the cloud and maintains the state, workspace, and remote access point for your OpenClaw environment. This allows you to keep OpenClaw available even when your laptop or desktop is turned off.
Running OpenClaw on a VPS is useful when you want a persistent, always-on environment for automation, remote access, scheduled workflows, and agent tasks that should not depend on your local computer staying online.
Minimum OpenClaw VPS Requirements
The minimum VPS requirements for OpenClaw depend on whether you are testing the platform or running it as a daily-use assistant. For basic testing, a small Linux VPS can be enough. For regular use, more RAM and storage are strongly recommended.
| Component | Minimum for testing | Recommended for daily use |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 1 vCPU | 2+ vCPU |
| RAM | 2–4 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 25–40 GB SSD | 40–80 GB NVMe |
| Operating system | Modern Linux distribution | Ubuntu 24.04 LTS or Debian-based Linux |
| Access | SSH access | Root access, SSH keys, and firewall control |
| Runtime | Depends on install method | Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2 for Docker-based deployments |
OpenClaw’s Docker documentation lists Docker Desktop or Docker Engine with Docker Compose v2 as requirements for Docker-based deployments. It also notes that at least 2 GB RAM may be needed for the image build and that enough disk space is required for images and logs.
Recommended VPS Specs for Most OpenClaw Users
For most OpenClaw users, the best starting VPS configuration is:
- 2 vCPU
- 8 GB RAM
- 40–80 GB NVMe storage
- Ubuntu 24.04 LTS or another modern Linux distribution
- Root SSH access
- Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2 if using a Docker-based deployment
- Firewall control
- Reliable network connectivity
- Regular backups for state, configuration, and workspace files
This configuration gives OpenClaw enough headroom for the Gateway, workspace files, logs, Docker overhead, package installation, background tasks, and moderate browser or tool usage without requiring a large dedicated server on day one.
If your OpenClaw deployment will run browser automation, multiple integrations, scheduled tasks, or several long-running workflows, consider starting with 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80–160 GB NVMe storage.
How Much RAM Does OpenClaw Need?
OpenClaw can run on a small VPS for basic testing, but RAM becomes more important once you add Docker, browser automation, integrations, workspace files, logs, and persistent background workflows.
A 2–4 GB VPS may work for experiments or lightweight testing. For an always-on personal OpenClaw deployment, 8 GB RAM is a safer baseline. For heavier automation, multiple browser sessions, several agents, or team usage, 16 GB RAM or more is recommended.
| RAM | Best use case |
|---|---|
| 2 GB | Very light testing only; limited headroom |
| 4 GB | Basic testing or light personal use |
| 8 GB | Recommended baseline for most always-on users |
| 16 GB | Browser automation, multiple integrations, and heavier workflows |
| 32 GB or more | Team use, heavy automation, large workspaces, or local AI workloads |
How Much CPU Does OpenClaw Need?
CPU demand depends on what OpenClaw is doing. Simple API-based workflows, messaging, scheduling, and lightweight automation are usually not very CPU-heavy. Browser automation, file processing, package installation, multiple simultaneous tasks, and tool execution can use more CPU.
A 2 vCPU VPS is a reasonable starting point for a personal OpenClaw deployment. A 4 vCPU VPS is better for heavier workflows, browser automation, and users who want more responsive performance under load.
| CPU | Best use case |
|---|---|
| 1 vCPU | Testing and very light usage |
| 2 vCPU | Most personal OpenClaw deployments |
| 4 vCPU | Browser automation, integrations, and heavier background tasks |
| 8+ vCPU | Team use, parallel workflows, or high-volume automation |
How Much Storage Does OpenClaw Need?
Storage matters because the VPS becomes the persistent environment for OpenClaw’s state, workspace, configuration, logs, sessions, generated files, and Docker data. Over time, logs, media files, browser data, package caches, and workspace files can grow.
For a test deployment, 25–40 GB may be enough. For a personal always-on OpenClaw VPS, 40–80 GB NVMe storage is a better starting point. For browser automation, file-heavy workflows, or long-term use, 80–160 GB or more is recommended.
| Usage | Storage recommendation |
|---|---|
| Test deployment | 25–40 GB |
| Personal always-on deployment | 40–80 GB |
| Browser automation, files, media, and logs | 80–160 GB |
| Team use or long-term archive | 160+ GB or attached block storage |
NVMe storage is preferred because OpenClaw can perform many small reads and writes across workspace files, logs, cache, state, browser sessions, and Docker layers. Faster storage can improve responsiveness and reduce delays during restarts, updates, and tool execution.
Does OpenClaw Need a GPU?
OpenClaw does not necessarily require a GPU. Many OpenClaw deployments use hosted AI model APIs, which means the VPS mainly needs enough CPU, RAM, storage, and network reliability to run the Gateway, tools, browser sessions, and integrations.
A GPU becomes relevant only if you plan to run local models or GPU-accelerated workloads on the same server. If you are only running the OpenClaw Gateway and connecting it to external AI providers, start with a VPS. If you plan to run local AI models, consider a larger dedicated server or GPU-capable environment.
Operating System Requirements
A modern Linux distribution is the best choice for OpenClaw VPS deployments. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is a strong default because it is widely supported, familiar to many developers, and works well with Docker-based server workflows. Debian-based distributions are also a good option for users who prefer a leaner base system.
For best results, choose a VPS that gives you root access, package manager control, firewall control, and the ability to install Docker, system services, and security updates.
Docker Requirements for OpenClaw
Docker is useful for VPS deployments because it gives you a more isolated and repeatable environment. For Docker-based OpenClaw deployments, you should plan for:
- Docker Engine or Docker Desktop
- Docker Compose v2
- At least 2 GB RAM for image builds
- Enough disk space for images, containers, logs, and workspace data
- Firewall rules for any exposed services
- Regular updates for Docker, OpenClaw, and the operating system
Docker adds convenience, but it also adds resource overhead. If you use Docker-based sandboxing or containerized services, leave extra RAM and disk space available.
Network and Bandwidth Requirements
OpenClaw does not usually require massive bandwidth for basic personal automation, but network reliability matters. The VPS should stay online consistently because the Gateway may need to communicate with APIs, serve a control interface, connect to integrations, maintain remote sessions, and run scheduled tasks.
Unmetered bandwidth is useful when OpenClaw workflows involve web research, browser automation, file transfers, logs, media, or frequent integration activity. It also helps avoid surprise bandwidth charges as your OpenClaw usage grows.
For best results, choose a VPS provider with reliable network connectivity, clear bandwidth terms, DDoS protection options, and data center locations near your users, APIs, or target regions.
Security Requirements for OpenClaw on a VPS
OpenClaw should not be treated like a basic static website. It may connect to accounts, execute tools, manage files, store configuration data, and control workflows. That makes server isolation, firewall rules, gateway authentication, and backup discipline part of the real VPS requirements.
For a safer OpenClaw VPS deployment, follow these practices:
- Use SSH keys instead of password-based SSH login.
- Disable root password login when possible.
- Keep the OpenClaw Gateway bound to loopback unless remote access is explicitly needed.
- Use SSH tunneling, Tailscale, WireGuard, or a VPN for remote access.
- Require gateway token or password authentication for non-loopback access.
- Use a firewall to restrict exposed ports.
- Keep OpenClaw, Docker, and operating system packages updated.
- Back up OpenClaw state, configuration, and workspace files.
- Avoid using personal browser profiles in shared or team agent environments.
- Use separate VPS instances, gateways, or OS users for different trust boundaries.
The safest approach is to expose as little as possible to the public internet. If you only need personal remote access, a private tunnel or VPN is usually better than opening the OpenClaw Gateway directly to the internet.
VPS vs Local Machine for OpenClaw
You can run OpenClaw locally, but a VPS is usually better for users who want persistent uptime and remote access. A local machine can sleep, reboot, disconnect, or become unavailable when you travel. A VPS is designed to stay online and can continue running OpenClaw even when your personal device is off.
| Deployment option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local laptop or desktop | Easy to start, no hosting cost, direct local control | Not ideal for 24/7 use; affected by sleep, reboots, and local network issues |
| Small VPS | Low cost, always online, good for testing and light use | Limited RAM and CPU for browser automation or heavy workflows |
| Performance VPS | Good balance of CPU, RAM, storage, and uptime | Requires basic server management |
| Dedicated server | More resources, stronger isolation, better for heavy usage | Higher cost than a VPS |
| GPU server | Useful for local AI models and GPU-heavy workloads | Usually unnecessary for API-based OpenClaw deployments |
Recommended OpenClaw VPS Configuration
For a balanced OpenClaw deployment, start with the following VPS configuration:
- Ubuntu 24.04 LTS
- 2 vCPU
- 8 GB RAM
- 40–80 GB NVMe storage
- Root SSH access
- Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2
- Firewall enabled
- Gateway access through SSH tunnel, Tailscale, WireGuard, or VPN
- Regular backups of state, configuration, and workspace files
For heavier browser automation, multiple agents, or business use, choose 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80–160 GB NVMe storage.
When Should You Upgrade Your OpenClaw VPS?
You should upgrade your OpenClaw VPS when the current server no longer has enough CPU, RAM, storage, or I/O performance for your workload.
Common signs that it is time to upgrade include:
- RAM usage is consistently above 75–85%.
- The Linux OOM killer terminates processes.
- Browser automation is slow or unstable.
- Docker containers restart frequently.
- Workspace, log, or media storage grows faster than expected.
- Multiple agents or workflows run at the same time.
- Disk I/O latency increases.
- API workflows queue, timeout, or become unreliable.
- System updates, builds, or package installs take too long.
If you are unsure whether to upgrade CPU, RAM, or storage first, check system metrics. High memory pressure usually means you need more RAM. Slow builds, browser tasks, or concurrent workflows may need more CPU. Rapid log, workspace, or Docker growth means you need more storage.
Why Run OpenClaw on Psychz cVirtual?
Psychz cVirtual is a strong fit for OpenClaw users who want an always-on VPS with NVMe storage, unmetered bandwidth, DDoS protection options, Linux control, and global deployment locations. This combination is useful for OpenClaw because the Gateway needs to stay available, preserve state, store workspace data, and support secure remote access.
For most OpenClaw users, a cVirtual VPS with 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40–80 GB NVMe storage is a practical starting point. For heavier automation, browser workflows, or business use, choose a larger VPS with more CPU, RAM, and storage headroom.
Need an always-on VPS for OpenClaw? Psychz cVirtual gives you NVMe storage, unmetered bandwidth, DDoS protection options, Linux control, and global data center choices for reliable OpenClaw deployments.
OpenClaw VPS Requirements FAQ
Can OpenClaw run on a VPS?
Yes. OpenClaw can run on a Linux server or cloud VPS. A VPS is a good option when you want OpenClaw to stay online even when your laptop or desktop is turned off.
What is the best VPS size for OpenClaw?
For most users, start with 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40–80 GB NVMe storage. For heavier browser automation, multiple integrations, or several long-running workflows, use 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80–160 GB NVMe storage.
Is 4 GB RAM enough for OpenClaw?
4 GB RAM may be enough for testing or light personal use, but 8 GB RAM is a better baseline for an always-on OpenClaw VPS. If you plan to use browser automation, multiple integrations, or heavier workflows, consider 16 GB RAM.
Does OpenClaw need Docker?
Docker is not required for every OpenClaw setup, but it is useful for VPS deployments because it provides a repeatable and isolated environment. If you use Docker, make sure your VPS supports Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2.
Does OpenClaw need a GPU?
No, OpenClaw does not need a GPU for typical Gateway deployments that use hosted AI model APIs. A GPU is only needed if you plan to run local AI models or GPU-heavy workloads on the same server.
What operating system should I use for OpenClaw on a VPS?
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is a strong default for OpenClaw VPS deployments because it is widely supported and works well with Docker-based workflows. Other modern Linux distributions can also work if they support the required packages and runtime environment.
Should I expose the OpenClaw Gateway to the internet?
In most cases, no. The safer approach is to keep the Gateway private and access it through SSH tunneling, Tailscale, WireGuard, or a VPN. If you expose any OpenClaw service beyond loopback, use strong authentication and strict firewall rules.
How much storage should I choose for OpenClaw?
For testing, 25–40 GB may be enough. For an always-on personal OpenClaw deployment, 40–80 GB NVMe storage is recommended. For browser automation, media files, large workspaces, or long-term logs, choose 80–160 GB or more.
Is NVMe storage important for OpenClaw?
NVMe storage is recommended because OpenClaw may use persistent state, logs, workspace files, Docker layers, cache, and browser session data. Faster storage can improve responsiveness and reduce delays during restarts, updates, and file-heavy workflows.
When should I upgrade my OpenClaw VPS?
Upgrade when RAM usage is consistently high, browser automation becomes unstable, Docker containers restart frequently, disk space runs low, workflows queue or timeout, or multiple agents need to run at the same time.
Final Recommendation
OpenClaw does not require a massive server for every deployment, but it does need a stable Linux VPS with enough RAM, fast storage, reliable networking, and secure remote access. For most users, the best starting point is 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40–80 GB NVMe storage. For heavier browser automation, multiple integrations, or business use, start with 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80–160 GB NVMe storage.
A properly sized VPS gives OpenClaw the persistent environment it needs to stay online, preserve state, run scheduled workflows, store workspace files, and support secure remote access from your devices.