What is OpenClaw? - Definition & Meaning
Discover what OpenClaw is, how the open-source AI chatbot framework works, and why OpenClaw is the ideal foundation for building and deploying your own AI assistant.
Definition
OpenClaw is an open-source AI chatbot framework that lets you build and deploy powerful, customizable AI assistants on your own infrastructure. It combines LLM integration, RAG knowledge bases, multi-channel messaging, and user-friendly configuration in one platform.
Technical explanation
OpenClaw is built as a modular Node.js/TypeScript application with a plugin architecture that enables easy extension. The core consists of a conversation engine that manages multi-turn dialogues with memory and context management, a RAG pipeline with vector database integration (pgvector) for knowledge base consultation, and an adapter layer for multiple LLM providers (OpenAI, Anthropic, local models via Ollama). The messaging framework supports multiple channels via adapters: Telegram Bot API, Discord.js, webhooks for website integration, and a REST API for custom integrations. Configuration is YAML-based with support for environment variables, keeping deployment-specific settings separate from application code. OpenClaw supports function calling for executing actions (database queries, API calls, calculations), guardrails for safe AI interactions, and extensive logging and analytics for monitoring chatbot performance. The project is licensed under the MIT license.
How OpenClaw Installeren applies this
OpenClaw Installeren is the official deployment platform for the OpenClaw framework. We simplify the complete installation process: from server provisioning at Europese cloud to configuring the chatbot with your knowledge base, LLM provider, and messaging channels. Instead of manually installing and configuring OpenClaw, our platform automates the entire process so you have a working AI assistant within minutes.
Practical examples
- An SMB using OpenClaw to deploy an AI customer service assistant that answers questions based on product documentation, accessible via Telegram and the company website.
- An e-learning platform using OpenClaw as an AI tutor that helps students with course material by generating answers from the course knowledge base with source references.
- An IT consultancy deploying OpenClaw as an internal knowledge assistant for employees, connected to the internal wiki, Confluence documentation, and ticket system.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Related articles
What is an AI Assistant? - Definition & Meaning
Learn what an AI assistant is, how artificial intelligence is used as a digital helper, and why more businesses are deploying AI assistants for customer service and internal processes.
What is a Chatbot? - Definition & Meaning
Discover what a chatbot is, what types of chatbots exist, and how businesses use chatbots for customer service, lead generation, and internal automation.
What is Prompt Engineering? - Definition & Meaning
Learn what prompt engineering is, how to write effective prompts for AI models, and why prompt engineering is essential for getting the most out of LLMs and chatbots.
OpenClaw for E-commerce
Discover how an AI chatbot via OpenClaw transforms your online store. Automate customer queries, boost conversions, and offer 24/7 personalised product advice to your shoppers.