---
title: "Access the HolaClaw virtual machine"
description: "Need access to the OpenClaw installation inside the HolaClaw virtual machine? You can connect to it over SSH using a command shown in the app."
updated: 2026-05-22
canonical: https://holaclaw.ai/docs/advanced/access-the-virtual-machine
---

> **Warning**
> These guides are meant for advanced users. If you are not comfortable making low-level system changes, use the regular HolaClaw app and standard docs instead.

Most required configuration changes can be made from the HolaClaw app. However, sometimes you may need direct access to the OpenClaw installation for more advanced tasks, such as complex configuration changes or installing additional software.

Note that changing the OpenClaw installation or configuration can cause misconfiguration, unexpected behavior, or make it fall out of sync with the HolaClaw app. **We recommend that most users avoid editing the OpenClaw installation directly**.

## Before you start

Make sure you:

- Have the HolaClaw app installed and running.
- Are comfortable using a terminal.
- Understand that the **Danger Zone** is intended for advanced users.

## Step 1: Open Settings in HolaClaw

Open the HolaClaw app, then go to **Settings**.

![HolaClaw Settings screen](/images/docs/advanced/settings.webp)

## Step 2: Scroll down to the Danger Zone

Inside Settings, scroll all the way down until you see **Danger Zone**.

This area contains the SSH command for your VM.

![Danger Zone showing the SSH shell command](/images/docs/advanced/settings-danger.webp)

## Step 3: Copy the SSH command

Click **Copy** next to the "Shell command" section. Enable "Privileged" if you need root access inside the virtual machine.

HolaClaw copies the full command to your clipboard, so you do not need to type it by hand.

## Step 4: Paste it into your terminal

Open your favorite terminal app on your Mac, such as `Terminal`, paste the command, and press `Enter`.

That will open an SSH session into your HolaClaw virtual machine.

![SSH command pasted into Terminal](/images/docs/advanced/terminal.webp)

## What happens next

Once connected, you are working directly inside the VM. From there, you can inspect the environment, run commands, and work with the system at a lower level than the regular app interface allows.

## If the command does not work

- Re-open **Settings -> Danger Zone** and copy the command again.
- Make sure you pasted the full command.
- Try a different terminal app if your current one is modifying pasted text.
- If access still fails, ask in the [HolaClaw Discord](https://discord.gg/FbxAbS5sGQ).

## Related

If you only need normal day-to-day setup, go back to the regular docs sections first. The Advanced section is best saved for cases where you specifically need to access OpenClaw directly.