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 VPS size depends on how you plan to use it. A small VPS can work for testing, while an always-on OpenClaw deployment with browser automation, integrations, workspace files, logs, and background workflows needs more CPU, RAM, storage, and network headroom.
For most users, the recommended OpenClaw VPS starting point is 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40-80 GB NVMe storage. For heavier browser automation, multiple integrations, larger workspaces, or business use, start closer to 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80-160 GB NVMe storage.
Quick Answer: Recommended OpenClaw VPS Specs
| OpenClaw use case | CPU | RAM | Storage | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Testing OpenClaw | 1-2 vCPU | 2-4 GB | 25-40 GB SSD/NVMe | Short tests, learning, and basic setup validation |
| Personal always-on OpenClaw VPS | 2 vCPU | 8 GB | 40-80 GB NVMe | Most individual users running OpenClaw 24/7 |
| Browser automation and multiple integrations | 4 vCPU | 16 GB | 80-160 GB NVMe | Browser sessions, scheduled tasks, larger workspaces, and heavier tools |
| Team or business OpenClaw deployment | 4-8 vCPU | 16-32 GB | 160+ GB NVMe | Shared business workflows inside one trusted team boundary |
| Local models or heavy AI workloads | Dedicated CPU or GPU server | 32+ GB | 250+ GB NVMe | Advanced users running local models or GPU-heavy workloads |
These are practical VPS sizing recommendations, not fixed OpenClaw limits. OpenClaw's official VPS documentation explains that the Gateway can run on a VPS and own the state and workspace while you connect from your laptop or phone through the Control UI, SSH, or Tailscale.
What Is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is a self-hosted personal AI assistant platform. It can run locally, but many users prefer hosting it on a VPS because the server stays online, keeps persistent state, stores workspace files, and can run automations even when a laptop or desktop is turned off.
In a VPS deployment, the OpenClaw Gateway runs on the server. The VPS becomes the persistent environment for OpenClaw configuration, workspace data, logs, integrations, and remote access.
Minimum OpenClaw VPS Requirements
The minimum OpenClaw VPS requirements depend on whether you are testing or running an always-on assistant. For testing, a smaller VPS may work. For daily use, more RAM and NVMe storage are 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 or sudo access with SSH keys |
| Docker | Optional depending on install method | Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2 for containerized deployments |
OpenClaw's Docker documentation lists Docker Engine or Docker Desktop with Docker Compose v2 as prerequisites for Docker-based deployments. It also notes that at least 2 GB RAM may be needed for image builds, and that 1 GB hosts may be killed during installation with exit 137.
How Much RAM Does OpenClaw Need?
RAM is one of the most important OpenClaw VPS sizing factors. A very small VPS can run basic tests, but always-on deployments need extra memory for the Gateway, Docker, logs, workspace files, browser automation, and integrations.
| RAM | Best use case | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 2 GB | Very light testing only | Not recommended for long-term use |
| 4 GB | Basic testing and light personal use | Usable for small deployments, but limited headroom |
| 8 GB | Personal always-on OpenClaw VPS | Recommended baseline for most users |
| 16 GB | Browser automation, multiple integrations, and heavier workflows | Recommended for power users |
| 32 GB or more | Team deployments, large workspaces, or local AI workloads | Recommended for advanced or business use |
If OpenClaw containers restart unexpectedly, browser automation crashes, or the Linux OOM killer terminates processes, the VPS likely needs more RAM.
How Much CPU Does OpenClaw Need?
OpenClaw CPU usage depends on what the agent is doing. Simple API-based workflows, messaging, scheduling, and light automation may not need much CPU. Browser automation, file processing, package installation, local tool execution, and multiple simultaneous workflows can use more CPU.
| CPU | Recommended for |
|---|---|
| 1 vCPU | Testing and very light use |
| 2 vCPU | Most personal OpenClaw VPS deployments |
| 4 vCPU | Browser automation, integrations, scheduled tasks, and heavier workflows |
| 8+ vCPU | Team use, parallel workflows, and high-volume automation |
A 2 vCPU VPS is a reasonable starting point for most users. A 4 vCPU VPS is better if OpenClaw will run browser automation, process files, or handle several workflows at the same time.
How Much Storage Does OpenClaw Need?
Storage matters because the VPS stores OpenClaw state, workspace files, logs, sessions, generated output, Docker images, package caches, and configuration files. These files can grow over time, especially when browser automation, media files, and long-running logs are involved.
| Usage | Storage recommendation |
|---|---|
| Test deployment | 25-40 GB |
| Personal always-on deployment | 40-80 GB NVMe |
| Browser automation, files, media, and logs | 80-160 GB NVMe |
| Team use or long-term archive | 160+ GB NVMe or attached block storage |
NVMe storage is recommended because OpenClaw can perform many small reads and writes across state, workspace files, logs, cache, Docker layers, and browser session data. Faster storage can improve responsiveness during updates, restarts, tool execution, and file-heavy workflows.
Does OpenClaw Need a GPU?
OpenClaw does not need a GPU for typical Gateway deployments that use hosted AI model APIs. In that setup, the VPS mainly needs enough CPU, RAM, storage, and network reliability to run the Gateway, tools, browser sessions, and integrations.
A GPU only becomes important if you plan to run local AI models or GPU-accelerated workloads on the same server. If you are using hosted AI providers, start with a VPS. If you are running local models, consider a larger dedicated server or GPU-capable environment.
Recommended Operating System for OpenClaw VPS Hosting
A modern Linux distribution is the best choice for OpenClaw VPS hosting. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is a practical default because it is widely supported, familiar to developers, and works well with Docker Engine and Docker Compose v2.
Debian-based Linux distributions are also reasonable choices for users who prefer a leaner base system. Regardless of distribution, choose a VPS that gives you root or sudo access, firewall control, package manager control, and the ability to install Docker or Node as required by your install method.
Docker Requirements for OpenClaw
Docker is not required for every OpenClaw setup, but it is useful on a VPS because it provides a repeatable and isolated deployment model. For Docker-based OpenClaw deployments, 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 OpenClaw, Docker, and the operating system.
Docker adds convenience, but it also adds overhead. If you enable sandboxing, browser automation, or additional containers, leave extra RAM and storage available.
Network and Bandwidth Requirements
OpenClaw usually does not require massive bandwidth for basic personal automation, but stable network connectivity is important. The Gateway may need to communicate with AI model APIs, messaging platforms, package repositories, browser sessions, and external services.
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 usage grows.
For best results, choose a VPS provider with reliable 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 be treated as a privileged automation system, not a normal static website. It may connect to accounts, execute tools, store workspace files, control browser sessions, and interact with messaging platforms.
Recommended security baseline:
- Keep the Gateway private whenever possible.
- Access OpenClaw through SSH tunnel, Tailscale, WireGuard, or VPN.
- Use a long random Gateway token or strong authentication.
- Use SSH keys instead of SSH passwords.
- Enable a firewall and allow only required ports.
- Run OpenClaw under a dedicated Linux user.
- Use one Gateway per trust boundary.
- Do not use personal browser or password manager profiles inside a shared OpenClaw runtime.
- Back up OpenClaw state and workspace files.
- Run OpenClaw security audits after installation and configuration changes.
OpenClaw's VPS documentation recommends keeping the Gateway bound to loopback as the secure default and using SSH tunneling or Tailscale for access. If you bind the Gateway to a LAN or tailnet interface, require token or password authentication.
When Should You Upgrade Your OpenClaw VPS?
Upgrade your VPS when OpenClaw starts to outgrow the current resources. Common signs include:
- RAM usage is consistently above 75-85%.
- The Linux OOM killer terminates OpenClaw, Docker, or browser processes.
- Browser automation becomes slow or unstable.
- Docker containers restart frequently.
- Workspace, log, or Docker storage grows faster than expected.
- Multiple workflows run at the same time.
- API workflows queue, timeout, or become unreliable.
- System updates, builds, or package installs take too long.
Why Use Psychz cVirtual for OpenClaw?
Psychz cVirtual is a strong fit for OpenClaw users who want an always-on VPS with Linux control, NVMe storage, unmetered bandwidth, DDoS protection options, and global data center choices.
OpenClaw benefits from a stable VPS because the Gateway owns the state and workspace. A properly sized cVirtual VPS gives OpenClaw a persistent environment for remote access, integrations, automation, logs, workspace files, and scheduled workflows.
For most users, start with a cVirtual VPS using Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40 GB or more of NVMe storage. Scale to 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and larger storage if you use browser automation, multiple agents, or business workflows.
OpenClaw VPS Requirements FAQ
Can OpenClaw run on a VPS?
Yes. OpenClaw can run on a Linux server or cloud VPS. This is useful when you want the Gateway, state, workspace, and automations to stay online even when your local computer is turned off.
What VPS size is best for OpenClaw?
For most users, 2 vCPU, 8 GB RAM, and 40-80 GB NVMe storage is the best starting point. For heavier browser automation, multiple integrations, or business use, choose 4 vCPU, 16 GB RAM, and 80-160 GB NVMe storage.
Is 4 GB RAM enough for OpenClaw?
4 GB RAM can work for basic testing or light use, but 8 GB RAM is a better baseline for an always-on OpenClaw VPS. Use 16 GB RAM or more for browser automation or heavier workflows.
Does OpenClaw require Docker?
No. OpenClaw can be installed through different methods, but Docker is useful for VPS deployments because it provides a repeatable containerized environment.
Does OpenClaw need a GPU?
No. A GPU is not required for typical OpenClaw 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.
Should I expose the OpenClaw Gateway to the internet?
Usually no. The safer method is to keep the Gateway private and access it through SSH tunneling, Tailscale, WireGuard, or VPN.
Related Articles
- Psychz cVirtual VPS Hosting
- How to Install OpenClaw on a Psychz cVirtual VPS
- OpenClaw Security Hardening Guide for VPS Deployments
Sources and References
- Official OpenClaw Installation Documentation
- Official OpenClaw Docker Documentation
- Official OpenClaw VPS Documentation
- Official OpenClaw Security Documentation
- Psychz cVirtual VPS Hosting
Article Information
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Applies to: OpenClaw VPS hosting, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, Docker Engine, Docker Compose v2, Psychz cVirtual VPS
Final Recommendation
OpenClaw does not need 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.