What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is an open-source framework for building and running AI agents. It provides the complete infrastructure an AI agent needs: language model integration, memory, tools, channel integrations and configuration management.
The project is built with backing from OpenAI and is actively maintained by an open-source community. The source code is publicly available on GitHub.
Why open source matters
With many AI platforms, you do not know what happens with your data. The code is closed, the processing is a black box and you have to trust the provider's promises.
Open source reverses that. With OpenClaw you can:
- Inspect the source code and verify what happens with your data
- Make your own modifications if you want to
- Have independent audits performed on the code
- No vendor lock-in: you can always migrate
For businesses that take GDPR compliance seriously, this is a major advantage. You can demonstrate that your data is not forwarded, not used for training and does not leave the EU.
How OpenClaw works
OpenClaw runs as a service on a server. The architecture looks like this:
Gateway The entry point of the agent. The gateway receives messages via HTTP/SSE and sends them to the language model. The gateway supports streaming, so responses are displayed in real-time.
Language model integration OpenClaw works with multiple AI models: Claude (Anthropic), GPT-4o (OpenAI), Gemini (Google) and models via OpenRouter. You choose which model your agent uses and can change it at any time.
Agents and configuration Each agent has its own configuration: which model is used, which tools are available, which system prompt the agent follows. This is managed via a JSON configuration file.
SOUL.md - the personality The personality of your agent is defined in a SOUL.md file. Here you define the name, tone of voice, expertise, working method and boundaries of your agent. This is not a technical configuration file, but a description in plain language.
Memory The agent remembers previous conversations and context. This memory is stored locally on the server, not with an external party.
Tools OpenClaw supports built-in tools: reading files, web browsing, internet search and more. You can configure which tools your agent may use.
Channels The agent is reachable via multiple channels: webchat, WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack and Discord. Each channel is configured as a plugin. Your customers choose the channel they already use.
OpenClaw on aiagent.nl
aiagent.nl is the Dutch platform that offers OpenClaw as a managed service. What does that mean concretely?
Dedicated servers Each customer gets their own server in the EU. No shared infrastructure. Your agent runs on a server set up exclusively for you. This means better performance and complete isolation from other customers.
Configuration via dashboard You do not need to edit JSON files. Via the dashboard on aiagent.nl you configure your agent: name, personality, language model, channels and skills. The technical configuration is generated automatically.
Automatic TLS certificates Each agent automatically gets an HTTPS connection via Let's Encrypt. Your agent runs on its own subdomain (your-name.aiagent.nl) with a valid SSL certificate.
Updates and maintenance aiagent.nl handles OpenClaw updates, security patches and server maintenance. You do not need to worry about the technical side.
BYOK: Bring Your Own Key
aiagent.nl works with a BYOK model. You bring your own API key for the language model (Anthropic, OpenAI or another). This has two advantages:
1. Transparent costs - You pay the model provider directly. No markup on tokens. 2. Full control - You choose your model, set your own limits and have direct insight into your usage.
The fixed monthly fee at aiagent.nl covers the server, the platform and support. The AI costs (tokens) are paid separately to the model provider.
Comparison with other frameworks
| Feature | OpenClaw | LangChain | AutoGPT | Custom code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Production-ready | Yes | Partially | No | Depends |
| Multi-channel | Yes (5+ channels) | No | No | Build yourself |
| Memory | Built-in | Self-configure | Limited | Build yourself |
| Open source | Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| Managed hosting available | Yes (aiagent.nl) | No | No | No |
| Gateway/API | Built-in | No | No | Build yourself |
| Skill system | Yes | Via chains | Limited | Build yourself |
OpenClaw stands out because it is a complete platform, not just a library. You do not need to set up infrastructure, build a gateway or develop channel integrations.
Which AI models work with OpenClaw?
OpenClaw supports multiple AI providers:
- Anthropic - Claude Sonnet 4.5, Claude Haiku 4.5, Claude Opus 4.6
- OpenAI - GPT-4o, GPT-4o mini
- Google - Gemini models
- OpenRouter - Access to hundreds of models from various providers
You can change the model at any time via the dashboard. You can even set a different model per task type: a cheaper model for simple questions, a more powerful model for complex tasks.
GDPR and data security
OpenClaw stores all data locally on the server. No data is sent to external services, except the API calls to the chosen language model. Those calls contain only the conversation content, no metadata about your business or users.
At aiagent.nl, all servers run in the EU. Data does not leave Europe. And because OpenClaw is open source, you can verify exactly which data is sent and to whom.
Getting started with OpenClaw
You have two options:
Self-host OpenClaw is open source. You can install it on your own server via npm: `npm install -g openclaw`. This requires technical knowledge (Node.js, server management, network configuration).
Via aiagent.nl No technical knowledge needed. You register, choose a plan, configure your agent via the dashboard and are live within a day. Dedicated EU server, automatic TLS, updates and support included.
Check the plans at aiagent.nl and start with your own AI agent today.
