Windows Installation Guide
Windows users need WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) to use the claw client. This guide will walk you through installing WSL and setting up the claw client.
Requirements
- Windows 10 version 2004 or higher (Build 19041 or higher), or Windows 11
- Administrator privileges
Step 1: Install WSL
Open PowerShell or Windows Command Prompt (as Administrator) and run:
wsl --install
This command automatically:
- Enables WSL features
- Installs Ubuntu distribution (default)
- Sets WSL 2 as the default version
After installation completes, restart your computer.
Step 2: First Launch
After reboot, open the "Ubuntu" app from Start menu. On first launch:
- Wait for installation to complete (may take a few minutes)
- Create a Linux username (can differ from your Windows username)
- Set a password (input won't show β this is normal)
You're now in the Linux terminal environment.
Step 3: Install Claw Client
In the WSL terminal, paste and run the install command from your creator:
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -sSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/clacky-ai/openclacky/main/scripts/install.sh)" -- --brand-name="JohnAI" --command="johncli"
π‘ Tip: Right-click in WSL terminal to paste.
The script will automatically install the client and apply brand configuration.
Step 4: Activate with Serial Number
After installation, launch the client using the creator's command (e.g. johncli).
On first launch, you'll be prompted for a serial number. Serial numbers are provided by the creator, typically from:
- Activation code included with purchased products
- Exclusive codes distributed in creator communities
- Creator's sales page
Enter your serial number to start using the pre-installed Skills.
Daily Usage
To use the claw client going forward:
- Open "Ubuntu" app from Start menu
- Run the creator's command in terminal (e.g.
johncli) - Start working
Windows-Specific FAQ
Q: "Unable to install" error when installing WSL?
A: Make sure you're running PowerShell as Administrator and your Windows version meets requirements (Win10 2004+ or Win11).
Q: Chinese characters showing as gibberish in WSL terminal?
A: Right-click terminal title bar β Properties β Font, select a font with Chinese support like "SimSun" or "Microsoft YaHei Mono".
Q: Can I access WSL files from Windows File Explorer?
A: Yes! Enter \\wsl$\Ubuntu in the File Explorer address bar to access WSL files.
Q: Can the claw client access files on Windows?
A: Yes. In WSL, Windows C: drive maps to /mnt/c, D: drive to /mnt/d, and so on.
Q: WSL taking up too much disk space?
A: Run wsl --shutdown in PowerShell (Admin), then follow disk cleanup procedures. See Microsoft's official documentation for details.
Q: Where do I find my serial number?
A: Contact the creator who shared the install command, or check your purchase confirmation for the activation code.
Next: How to use Skills β