How to Self-Host OpenClaw on a Contabo VPS (Complete Setup Guide)
How to Run OpenClaw on Your Own Server (Step-by-Step)
OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that runs on your own server — meaning your data stays yours, not processed through someone else's infrastructure. This tutorial walks you through the full setup on a Contabo VPS, from ordering the server to chatting with your first AI agent.
You'll need a Contabo VPS (Cloud VPS 10 or higher) and an API key from an AI provider like OpenAI or Anthropic. If you can open a terminal, you can follow along.
One thing to know upfront: OpenClaw connects to external AI APIs that charge based on usage. Keep an eye on your consumption once it's running.
── Commands ──
ssh root@your-server-ip
openclaw onboard
ssh -N -L 18789:127.0.0.1:18789 root@your-server-ip
http://localhost:18789
── Links ──
OpenClaw on Contabo → https://contabo.com/en/openclaw-hosting/
Setup guide → https://help.contabo.com/en/support/s...
VPS plans → https://contabo.com/en/vps/
Got questions or ran into something unexpected? Drop a comment below.
#OpenClaw #SelfHosted #ContaboVPS