Exact symptom guide · Independent guidance

Fix “OpenClaw config is invalid” without losing your config

Do not replace the whole config with an example. Locate the active file, copy it outside the state directory, run `openclaw config validate --json`, and fix the smallest reported path against the live schema. OpenClaw writers validate the full result and preserve rejected payloads when a write fails.

Current snapshotUpdated 2026-08-24Official docs main snapshot · OpenClaw 2026.8.1
01

Recovery loop

  1. 1

    Resolve the active file

    Profiles and environment overrides can change the path.

    openclaw config file --json
  2. 2

    Back up the exact file

    Copy it to a verified location before using a writer or repair command.

  3. 3

    Get structured findings

    Read path, expected shape, and provider/source compatibility.

    openclaw config validate --json
  4. 4

    Preview a targeted edit

    Use dry-run and keep comments in mind: OpenClaw writers serialize as standard JSON.

    openclaw config set <path> <value> --dry-run --json
  5. 5

    Revalidate

    Restart only if the successful writer says the changed field requires it.

    openclaw config validate
    openclaw doctor --json
02

Unknown provider params need owner documentation

The active schema can validate the surrounding provider structure while leaving provider-specific parameter bags open. Passing config validation does not prove every provider parameter is supported. Conversely, bundled third-party validators must not delete new or plugin-owned fields they do not understand.

Primary sources

Verify against the owner.

Content snapshot follows official docs main at the recorded commit; the current package metadata reported 2026.8.1 when verified. Your installed release and live CLI schema remain authoritative.