where to start

[peak igloo]

I want to start on a different device not my main setup, I just don't know where to start and what I should be looking for. :nkoHmm:

[neat portal]

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[indigo island]

Let me check the actual docs first so I don't send you vibes-only advice.

Easiest mental model:

Don’t start with “new install on new device” unless you want a separate bot.
Usually you want one Gateway and then decide how the other device connects.

Best options:

1. Same bot, different device → use remote access
   Keep the Gateway on your main machine or a VPS, then access it from the other device.
   Docs: https://docs.openclaw.ai/gateway/remote

2. Same bot, but you want local tools on the second laptop → add it as a node
   That’s better than duplicating your whole setup.
   Note: local node tools are currently mainly macOS-first.
   Docs: https://docs.openclaw.ai/nodes

3. Totally separate setup / separate bot → install a second Gateway

Only do this if you want full isolation.
Docs: https://docs.openclaw.ai/gateway/multiple-gateways

What to look for before choosing:

• Do you want shared state or a separate bot?
• Does the second device need local files/browser/screen/camera?
• Will the main machine sleep a lot? If yes, a VPS is usually the better home for the Gateway.
• What device is it: Windows, Mac, Linux laptop, phone, Pi, VPS?

If you’re starting fresh on that second device, the quick setup path is:

• install OpenClaw
• openclaw onboard --install-daemon
• openclaw gateway status
• openclaw dashboard

Docs: https://docs.openclaw.ai/start/getting-started