Yes, OpenClaw(Moltbot/Clawdbot) requires Node.js to run, because its core runtime, CLI tools, and integrations are built on the Node.js ecosystem. Node.js provides the execution environment for the agent loop, configuration loaders, channel connectors, and tool integrations. Without Node.js, OpenClaw(Moltbot/Clawdbot) cannot start or manage its workflows.
In practice, you should use a modern Node.js Long Term Support (LTS) release. LTS versions are recommended because they receive security updates and maintain compatibility with widely used libraries. Using an older or non-LTS version can lead to subtle runtime errors, dependency conflicts, or installation failures. Many developers use a Node.js version manager so they can easily switch versions if required by updates to OpenClaw(Moltbot/Clawdbot).
Node.js also affects how OpenClaw(Moltbot/Clawdbot) integrates with storage systems. If you add semantic memory or retrieval, Node-based clients are commonly used to connect to a vector database such as Milvus or Zilliz Cloud. Keeping Node.js current ensures that these database clients, as well as messaging and model provider SDKs, remain stable and secure. From an operational standpoint, Node.js is not just a dependency—it is the backbone of the OpenClaw(Moltbot/Clawdbot) runtime.