Step 3: Model + Channel Wiring

What You'll Do

Set up your AI model provider and connect at least one messaging channel (Telegram, Discord, etc.).

Choose one provider:

**Anthropic (Claude)**: [console.anthropic.com](https://console.anthropic.com)

**OpenAI (GPT)**: [platform.openai.com](https://platform.openai.com)

**Google (Gemini)**: [ai.google.dev](https://ai.google.dev)

export ANTHROPIC_API_KEY="your-api-key-here"

Or add to your `.env` file in the workspace.

Talk to [@BotFather](https://t.me/BotFather) on Telegram

Create a new bot with `/newbot`

Copy the bot token

Add to openclaw.json:

{
  "channels": {
    "telegram": {
      "token": "your-bot-token-here"
    }
  }
}

Start OpenClaw Gateway:

openclaw gateway start

Send a message to your Telegram bot. You should receive a response from your OpenClaw assistant.

✅ You can send and receive at least one message

✅ AI model responds correctly

✅ OpenClaw Gateway is running

Move to [Step 4: Operational Setup](/step/4) to add memory and skills.