OpenClaw Troubleshooting Guide: Fix Common Issues
Running into problems with OpenClaw? This guide covers the most common issues and their solutions — from installation errors to model connection problems.
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Why OpenClaw Issues Are Usually Configuration Problems
The vast majority of OpenClaw issues are configuration problems, not bugs. OpenClaw is a complex piece of software that connects multiple components — the CLI, the model API, the file system, and various tools. When something goes wrong, it's usually because one of these connections isn't configured correctly.
The good news is that configuration problems are fixable. The bad news is that the error messages aren't always clear about what's misconfigured. This guide translates common error messages into actionable fixes.
Before diving into specific issues, a general principle: when OpenClaw behaves unexpectedly, the first step is always to check the configuration file (~/.openclaw/config.json) and verify that all required values are set correctly. Many issues trace back to a missing API key, an incorrect model name, or a misconfigured path.
The Most Common OpenClaw Issues
Authentication errors: 'Invalid API key' or 'Authentication failed' — check that your API key is set correctly in the config file or environment variable. Verify the key is active and has the necessary permissions.
Model not found: 'Model X not found' — check the exact model identifier. Model names are case-sensitive and version-specific. Verify the model name against the provider's current model list.
Connection timeout: 'Request timed out' — check your internet connection for cloud models, or verify Ollama is running for local models. Increase the timeout setting in the config if the model is slow to respond.
Permission denied: 'Permission denied' when accessing files — check that OpenClaw has the necessary file system permissions. On macOS, you may need to grant terminal access to specific directories.
Skill not loading: A skill you installed isn't being used — verify the skill directory is in the correct location and the SKILL.md file is properly formatted. Check for syntax errors in the skill file.
Step-by-Step Guide
Check the error message carefully
Read the full error message, including any stack trace. The specific error text usually points to the cause. Copy the error message to search for solutions.
Verify your configuration file
Open ~/.openclaw/config.json and check all required fields: model name, API key (or environment variable reference), base URL (for Ollama), and any other settings.
Test the model connection independently
For cloud models, verify your API key works by making a direct API call using curl or the provider's SDK. For Ollama, run `ollama run [model]` to verify the model is working.
Check file system permissions
If OpenClaw can't access files, check the permissions on the relevant directories. On macOS, check System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Files and Folders.
Enable verbose logging
Add `"logLevel": "debug"` to your config file to enable verbose logging. This provides much more detail about what OpenClaw is doing and where it's failing.
Why Pair with OmniScriber?
Save your troubleshooting conversations
When you use ChatGPT or Claude to help debug an OpenClaw issue, export that conversation with OmniScriber — so you have the solution documented for next time.
Build a personal troubleshooting library
As you encounter and solve OpenClaw issues, OmniScriber helps you build a searchable library of solutions — so you can find the fix quickly next time.
Share solutions with the community
Export your troubleshooting conversations and share them with the OpenClaw community — your solutions may help others facing the same issues.
Document your configuration
Export conversations where you configured OpenClaw correctly with OmniScriber — so you have a reference when setting up OpenClaw on a new machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Archive Your Troubleshooting Solutions
Install OmniScriber — FreeExport your troubleshooting conversations for future reference