Moltbot, also known as Clawdbot, is a cryptocurrency trading bot that can trade cryptocurrencies based on a set of predefined trading strategies without the need for constant human intervention. This is particularly helpful for traders who wish to trade 24/7 without the need for emotional decision-making, which is often the case in manual trading. The use of Moltbot (Clawdbot) on a VPS ensures that the bot is running in a stable environment that is always on and does not have any interruptions due to power outages or internet connectivity issues.
For Moltbot to function properly, it needs a stable operating environment with continuous internet connectivity and system resources. Operating such a bot on a personal computer may be dangerous due to the risk of power failures, system restarts, internet disconnections, or accidental shutdowns. This is why most people opt to run their Moltbot on a Virtual Private Server (VPS), which offers an exclusive online environment hosted in a data center.
Why a VPS Is Used for Running Trading Bots
Trading bots are programmed to continuously monitor markets and make trades. This requires them to run 24/7 without any breaks. A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a way to have a system that is always on and running in a professional data center, which is much safer than using personal computers to run trading bots.
Personal systems are prone to power failures, internet outages, operating system updates, and accidental shutdowns. Even a small glitch can result in a trading bot missing important market actions or missing trade deadlines. A VPS can eliminate most of these risks by providing a reliable infrastructure that has redundant power, network, and hardware.
Another major benefit of using a VPS is consistent performance. Trading bots often rely on real-time market data and fast execution speeds. A VPS typically offers stable, low-latency network connections, especially when hosted near major exchange servers. This helps reduce delays in order placement and improves overall trading efficiency.
Key advantages of using a VPS include:
Continuous uptime for uninterrupted bot operation, ensuring strategies run as intended at all times
Stable and low-latency network connectivity, which is critical for timely trade execution
Dedicated system resources, such as CPU and RAM, prevent performance drops caused by other users
Greater control over system configuration and security, allowing users to optimize the environment for automation
In addition, a VPS gives users full administrative access, making it easier to install required software, manage updates, monitor resource usage, and apply security best practices. For anyone running automated trading bots like Moltbot or Clawdbot, a VPS provides the reliability and control needed for long-term, hands-off operation.
System Requirements
Before the installation of Moltbot (Clawdbot), it is imperative to ensure that your VPS satisfies the minimum system requirements. This will help you avoid any potential issues that may arise from a server that lacks the necessary resources or has an unsupported operating system.
Although Moltbot is a lightweight bot, it is important to note that it operates continuously and processes real-time market data. Therefore, a sufficient amount of CPU and memory is required for it to run smoothly, especially during times of high market activity.
The recommended system requirements are as follows:
Operating System: Ubuntu 20.04 or Ubuntu 22.04
These long-term support (LTS) versions provide stability, security updates, and strong compatibility with Python-based applications and libraries.CPU: Minimum 1 virtual core (2 cores recommended)
A single core is usually sufficient for basic strategies, but additional CPU cores help handle more complex logic, multiple trading pairs, or simultaneous API requests.RAM: At least 2 GB
This ensures smooth execution of the bot, prevents memory-related crashes, and allows room for Python libraries and background processes.Disk Space: Minimum 20 GB
Adequate disk space is required for the operating system, bot files, logs, dependencies, and future updates.Access: Root or sudo privileges
Administrative access is necessary to install system packages, configure services, manage firewall rules, and maintain the server securely.
While these specifications are suitable for most users, traders running multiple bots, advanced strategies, or additional services may benefit from higher resources. Starting with a properly sized VPS ensures Moltbot runs efficiently and remains responsive over long periods of continuous operation.
Step 1: Accessing the VPS via SSH
After provisioning the VPS, connect to it using SSH.
On Linux or macOS:
On Windows, tools such as PuTTY or Windows Terminal (WSL) can be used to establish the connection.
Step 2: Updating the Operating System
Keeping the system up to date helps prevent compatibility and security issues.
Reconnect to the server after the reboot completes.
Step 3: Installing Required Packages
Moltbot is typically written in Python, so Python and related tools must be installed.
Verify installation:
Step 4: Creating a Non-Root User (Optional but Recommended)
Running applications as a non-root user improves security.
Step 5: Downloading Moltbot (Clawdbot)
Obtain Moltbot from its official or trusted source. This is commonly done using Git.
Ensure the source is legitimate to avoid security risks.
Step 6: Creating a Python Virtual Environment
A virtual environment isolates dependencies and avoids conflicts with system packages.
Once activated, the shell prompt will indicate the virtual environment is active.
Step 7: Installing Python Dependencies
If a requirements.txt file is provided:
If dependencies are not listed, common libraries used by trading bots include
Step 8: Configuring Moltbot
Configuration files define how the bot operates. These usually include:
Exchange API credentials
Trading pairs
Strategy parameters
Risk management rules
Edit the configuration file:
or
Important security practices:
Do not enable withdrawal permissions for API keys
Store configuration files securely
Avoid sharing sensitive information
Step 9: Testing the Bot
Before running the bot continuously, test it manually.
Monitor output for errors related to API connections, missing libraries, or configuration issues.
Step 10: Running Moltbot in the Background
To keep Moltbot running after logging out, a terminal session manager such as screen can be used.
Create a session:
Start the bot:
Detach from the session:
Reattach later using:
Optional: Running Moltbot as a System Service
For long-term operation, Moltbot can be configured as a systemd service.
Create a service file:
Example configuration:
Enable and start the service:
Security Best Practices
When running an automated trading bot on a VPS, security should be a top priority. Trading bots often interact with exchange APIs and run continuously, making them attractive targets if the server is poorly secured. Following basic security best practices helps protect your system, your data, and your trading accounts.
Start by enabling a firewall and restricting network access to only what is necessary. Most trading bots do not require open public ports beyond SSH. Using tools like UFW allows you to block unwanted traffic and reduce the attack surface of your server.
Whenever possible, use SSH key-based authentication instead of password logins. SSH keys are far more secure than passwords and significantly reduce the risk of brute-force attacks. After configuring key-based access, password authentication can be disabled entirely for additional protection.
It is also essential to keep the system updated regularly. Security vulnerabilities are frequently discovered and patched in Linux distributions. Applying updates ensures your server remains protected against known exploits and compatibility issues.
Monitoring logs and system resource usage helps detect unusual behavior early. Reviewing system logs can reveal failed login attempts, unexpected errors, or application crashes. Monitoring CPU, memory, and disk usage ensures the bot is running efficiently and alerts you to potential performance issues before they cause downtime.
Additional recommended practices include limiting sudo access, running the bot under a non-root user, and securely storing API keys with restricted permissions. Together, these measures create a safer and more reliable environment for running Moltbot or any other automated trading application on a VPS.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- Bot stops after logout: Use screen or systemd
- API connection errors: Check API permissions and exchange limits
- High resource usage: Adjust strategy parameters or upgrade server resources
- Python errors: Verify dependency installation within the virtual environment
Final Thoughts
The installation of Moltbot (Clawdbot) on a VPS provides a predictable, stable, and always-on environment for automated trading activities. Unlike desktop computers, VPSs are built to operate 24/7, making them an ideal choice for bots that require constant market observation and trading. With proper configuration, it is possible to minimize risks related to downtime, connectivity, and performance.
To create a stable environment for your bot, you need to follow a systematic installation process that includes keeping the operating system up-to-date, separating dependencies through virtual environments, using secure configuration techniques, and configuring the bot to run in the background.
