WhatsApp Integration Guide: Personal vs Dedicated Number Setup

Choosing Your WhatsApp Setup

When connecting OpenClaw to WhatsApp, you have two main options:

Option 1: Dedicated Number (Recommended)

Using a separate phone number for OpenClaw provides:

Clear separation between personal and AI messages

Better security with isolated credentials

No interference with your personal WhatsApp

How to get a dedicated number:

Use an eSIM service (Airalo, Holafly)

Get a prepaid SIM card

Use a VoIP number that supports SMS verification

Option 2: Personal Number with Self-Chat Mode

If you want to use your existing WhatsApp:

Configure self-chat mode to only respond to messages you send to yourself

Add trusted contacts to your allowlist

Use pairing mode to manually approve new contacts

Connecting via QR Code

OpenClaw uses the Baileys library to connect as a WhatsApp Web client:

openclaw channels login whatsapp

Scan the QR code with your WhatsApp mobile app:

Open WhatsApp on your phone

Go to Settings → Linked Devices

Tap "Link a Device"

Scan the QR code displayed in terminal

Security Configuration

DM Policy Options

Configure who can message your bot:

{
  "channels": {
    "whatsapp": {
      "dmPolicy": "pairing"
    }
  }
}

pairing (default): New contacts must enter a pairing code

allowlist: Only pre-approved numbers can message

open: Anyone can message (not recommended)

Setting Up Allowlists

Restrict access to specific numbers:

{
  "channels": {
    "whatsapp": {
      "allowFrom": ["+1555123456", "+1555789012"]
    }
  }
}

Troubleshooting

"Connection keeps dropping"

Ensure stable internet connection

Check if you're logged in elsewhere

Re-pair with openclaw channels login whatsapp

"Messages not sending"

Verify recipient is in your allowlist

Check media size limits (6MB for images)

Review gateway logs for errors

Need Help?

Our team can handle WhatsApp setup for you. Contact us for professional installation.