How Does OpenClaw Architecture Work?

Architecture choices directly shape reliability, security, and scaling potential.

Core Execution Flow

Messages enter the gateway, context is resolved, the agent loop plans actions, tools execute, and results are returned.

Deployment Models

• OpenClaw: self-hosted and developer-controlled.
• ZeroClaw (Zero-Setup): managed cloud-first experience.

Security and Integration Checklist

• Local-first binding and token auth.
• Allowlists and role permissions.
• Audit logging and tenant boundaries.