How to Fix OpenClaw "Localhost Refused" on Windows

Updated: Feb 6, 2026 • Category: Troubleshooting

If you are trying to run OpenClaw on Windows 11 and getting a Connection Refused error, you are not alone. This guide helps you fix it in 3 minutes.

The Problem

By default, OpenClaw is optimized for Mac/Linux environments. On Windows, Docker Desktop sometimes fails to map the localhost ports correctly, causing the agent to be unreachable.

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Step 1: Enable PowerShell Permissions

Open your PowerShell as Administrator and run the following command to allow script execution:

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

Step 2: Modify the Config File

Locate your config.yaml file. Change the host from 0.0.0.0 to 127.0.0.1 explicitly.

Step 3: Restart Docker

Restart your Docker Desktop completely. Then run the start command again.

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