Where Does OpenClaw Store Config?
OpenClaw reads an optional JSON5 config from a dotfolder in home. Paths for Windows, macOS and Linux plus overrides.
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OpenClaw keeps one config file in a dotfolder directly in your home directory. The file is openclaw.json, written in JSON5 so comments and trailing commas are allowed. If the file is missing, the gateway starts with safe defaults and watches for it to appear.
This tool was called Clawdbot, then Moltbot, before becoming OpenClaw in early 2026. Old guides naming those folders point at the same idea under a retired name. The current docs name ~/.openclaw/openclaw.json explicitly, with a workspace default beside it.
Where OpenClaw stores this, by platform
%USERPROFILE%\.openclaw\openclaw.json
For example C:\Users\<you>\.openclaw\openclaw.json. The gateway watches the file and hot reloads on save. Point OPENCLAW_CONFIG_PATH at another file to override it. Symlinked configs are not supported for writes.
~/.openclaw/openclaw.json
For example /Users/<you>/.openclaw/openclaw.json. Same JSON5 format on every OS. The minimal example also uses ~/.openclaw/workspace as the default workspace beside the config.
~/.openclaw/openclaw.json
For example /home/<you>/.openclaw/openclaw.json. Same override variable applies: OPENCLAW_CONFIG_PATH points directly at the real file. Keep permissions tight since it can hold API keys.
Frequently asked questions
What format is the OpenClaw config file?
JSON5, which means plain JSON plus comments and trailing commas. The gateway parses it on start and reloads it when it changes. A missing file is fine: OpenClaw falls back to safe defaults until you create one.
Where is the OpenClaw workspace folder?
Beside the config at ~/.openclaw/workspace in the minimal example. That folder holds working files the agent reads and writes. You can point it elsewhere in the config, but keeping it next to openclaw.json keeps backups simple.
Is Clawdbot the same as OpenClaw?
Yes, it is the earlier name from the same project, renamed twice in January 2026. Guides that say Clawdbot or Moltbot describe the same config idea under a retired name. Follow current docs and use ~/.openclaw/openclaw.json for new installs.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.