Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about OpenClaw setup and managed care.
What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is an open-source AI assistant that runs on your own hardware. Unlike cloud-based AI tools, it operates locally. Your data never leaves your machine. It can manage email, schedule meetings, draft replies, automate workflows, and integrate with your existing tools like Slack, iMessage, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365.
How is this different from ChatGPT or Claude?
ChatGPT and Claude are chat interfaces. You ask questions, you get answers. OpenClaw is an agent that actually does work. It runs continuously, monitors your inbox, takes actions on your behalf, and integrates deeply with your systems. Think of it as hiring a capable assistant vs. having a really smart search engine.
Why can't I just set it up myself?
You can. OpenClaw is open-source. But most teams spend several hours (sometimes days) getting everything wired up correctly. Security hardening alone requires careful attention to access controls, network configuration, credential management, and audit logging. Then there's ongoing maintenance: updates, drift checks, broken integrations. We handle all of that so you can focus on your business.
What hardware do I need?
A Mac Mini is required for iMessage integration. For everything else, you can use any Mac, a Linux server, or even a VPS. We'll help you determine the right setup based on your needs. Hardware costs are at cost or bring your own.
How long does setup take?
Most implementations take 5-8 hours total, typically across one or two sessions. You go live the same day. Multi-agent deployments take longer depending on how many executives need their own instance.
Is it safe to give an AI access to my email?
It's never 100% safe. This is an AI with real access to your systems. The bigger risk for most businesses is their InfoSec team blocking it as 'shadow AI' before they get any value from it. We configure OpenClaw to pass security review: audit trails, access controls, hardening, least-privilege principles. We help you make the necessary decisions to get it to production instead of stuck in compliance limbo.
What access do you need during setup?
Temporary access to the machine/network and the accounts you're connecting (email, calendar, messaging). We use least-privilege principles and recommend credential rotation after go-live. Everything is documented so your IT team knows exactly what was configured.
What's included in the 14-day hypercare?
After go-live, you get a dedicated Slack channel with fast-response support. We'll fix any issues, tune the system based on your feedback, and help you get comfortable. Most questions get answered within hours, not days.
Do I need Managed Care after setup?
Implementation includes 14-day hypercare. After that, ongoing support requires a Managed Care plan. You can technically run without it, but you'll be responsible for updates, monitoring, security patches, and troubleshooting. Most businesses find the peace of mind worth it.
What if I have multiple executives who need their own assistant?
This is the common case for 4-50 employee teams. Each 'Executive Agent' is one OpenClaw instance configured for one primary identity (CEO inbox, CFO, Head of Sales, etc.). This keeps security boundaries clean. We'll help you decide which roles need their own agent vs. shared workflows.
Can you help with custom integrations?
Yes. Implementation includes up to 3 custom workflows. Managed Care plans include monthly hours for additional integrations, automations, or optimizations. If you need something specific, just ask. We've built integrations with CRMs, project management tools, internal databases, and more.
Do you work with businesses outside Sacramento?
Yes. In-person setup is available for Sacramento and the surrounding NorCal area. Remote setup is available anywhere. We'll deploy on your hardware over a screen-share session with full documentation.