Self-host OpenClaw on a Hostinger VPS, connect a messaging channel, add skills, and avoid the security and cost traps most people hit.
Prerequisites#
- A VPS with Docker (Hostinger one-click template recommended)
- A domain name with DNS access
- A messaging account (Telegram, WhatsApp, or Discord)
References#
Instructions#
Deploy OpenClaw on Hostinger VPS#
Order a KVM 2 VPS using the OpenClaw Docker template at hostinger.com/vps/docker/openclaw. Use promo code LEMPA for a discount.
Important: Do NOT open port forwarding — the template configures HTTPS via Traefik automatically. Access OpenClaw through the Access button in the Hostinger panel.
Once deployed, retrieve your Gateway Token from the OpenClaw dashboard.
SSH into the VPS and run onboarding#
ssh root@YOUR_HOSTINGER_VPS_IP
# Find the running OpenClaw container name
docker ps
# Open a shell inside the container
docker exec -it <container-name> sh
# Run the onboarding wizard
openclaw onboard
Security warning: OpenClaw is a beta project with real tool access (files, commands, tools). A bad prompt can do real damage — never give it more access than necessary.
Configure OpenClaw (LLM, channels, skills)#
openclaw configure
This interactive wizard covers everything: LLM provider, messaging channels, skills, and more.
LLM options:
- Hostinger Nexos AI — pre-integrated, no separate API key. New users get 2x AI credits on first VPS purchase (use promo LEMPA).
- OpenAI / Anthropic — bring your own API key
- Ollama / LM Studio — local models, full privacy
Warning: OpenClaw is token-hungry on agentic tasks. Monitor usage if you’re on a pay-per-token plan.
Messaging channels — follow the in-wizard instructions for your channel:
- Telegram / Discord: Create a bot → get the bot token → paste it in
- WhatsApp: Scan the QR code (same as WhatsApp Web)
Add Skills#
Skills are plain Markdown files that give your agent new capabilities. Browse built-in skills via openclaw configure or find community skills at clawhub.ai.
Install community skills
clawhub search xyz
clawhub install xyz
...
