Runtime
Run OpenClaw Locally or in the Cloud?
Pick the runtime that matches your workload, budget, and reliability needs.
Decision
Local, Cloud, or Hybrid
Choose the runtime that matches your workload, security posture, and budget.
CostReliabilityAccess
Compare
Local vs Cloud vs Hybrid
| Local | Cloud | Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup effort | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Monthly cost | Low | Medium to high | Medium |
| Reliability (24/7) | Medium | High | High |
| Access to internal resources | Best | Limited | Best |
| Security control | Highest | Good | High |
| Best for | Personal tasks | Always-on workflows | Mixed workloads |
Local
Choose Local if...
- You want personal productivity
- Tasks are lightweight
- Data lives on your machine
- You run workflows occasionally
- You are cost sensitive
Cloud
Choose Cloud if...
- You need 24/7 uptime
- You need public access or notifications
- Teams need shared access
- You need more stable resources
- You may need GPU (if applicable)
Hybrid
Choose Hybrid if...
- You develop locally but run in the cloud
- You want to separate data tiers
- You plan to migrate gradually
Pitfalls
Common pitfalls
- Unexpected cloud costs
- Firewall and port misconfiguration
- Secrets handling done too late
- Skipping updates and backups
Path
Get a recommended path in 30 seconds
FAQ
FAQ
Can I switch later?
Yes. Many teams start local and move to cloud once workflows stabilize.
Is hybrid hard?
It is manageable if you keep clear boundaries between local data and cloud services.
Which is safest?
Local gives the most control, but cloud can be safe with strict permission and network policies.