Deploy OpenClaw on a $5 VPS
Run OpenClaw (formerly Moltbot) 24/7 on a cheap cloud server. Always-on AI assistant accessible from anywhere.
- ✓Always Online — Your AI assistant runs 24/7, even when your computer is off
- ✓Accessible Anywhere — Message your bot from any device, any location
- ✓Static IP — Reliable connection for webhooks and integrations
- ✓Cheap — As low as $3.79/month for always-on AI
VPS Provider Comparison
Hetzner Cloud
Best Value€3.79/mo
2 vCPU, 2GB RAM, 20GB SSD
Region: EU
DigitalOcean
$6/mo
1 vCPU, 1GB RAM, 25GB SSD
Region: Global
Vultr
$5/mo
1 vCPU, 1GB RAM, 25GB SSD
Region: Global
Linode
$5/mo
1 vCPU, 1GB RAM, 25GB SSD
Region: Global
Fly.io
$1.94/mo
1 vCPU, 256MB RAM, 1GB SSD
Region: Global
Railway
Usage-based
Auto-scaling, managed
Region: Global
Render
$7/mo
0.5 vCPU, 512MB RAM
Region: Global
Setup Steps
Create a VPS Instance
Sign up for your preferred provider and create a new server:
- • Select Ubuntu 22.04 LTS
- • Choose the cheapest plan ($5-6/mo)
- • Pick a region close to you
- • Add your SSH key for secure access
Connect via SSH
Open your terminal and connect to your new server:
ssh root@your-server-ipRun the Install Script
One command installs OpenClaw and all dependencies:
curl -fsSL https://openclaw.ai/install.sh | bashConfigure Firewall
Secure your server by only allowing necessary ports:
Setup Auto-Start (Optional)
Ensure OpenClaw starts automatically after server reboots:
systemctl enable openclaw!Never expose port 3000 (OpenClaw dashboard) directly to the internet
!Use a reverse proxy (Nginx/Caddy) with HTTPS for web access
!Disable password SSH login, use keys only
!Keep your system updated: apt update && apt upgrade
VPS Running?
Now configure your AI model and connect your messaging apps.