When fallback behavior gets confusing, the fix is to inspect the active chain directly. OpenClaw exposes that chain through both the fallbacks list command and the richer status view.
Quick answer
Run openclaw models fallbacks list for the short answer and openclaw models status for the full resolved model state.
Command line steps
1. List just the fallback chain
This is the fastest way to answer ‘what are my backup models right now?’
openclaw models fallbacks list2. Inspect the full model resolver
Status shows the primary, the fallbacks, and whether auth is missing for any configured provider.
openclaw models status3. Probe if you suspect stale auth
A fallback is only useful if the provider behind it is still reachable.
openclaw models status --probeWhat to check if it still fails
- If the fallback list is empty, you do not have backups configured yet. Add them with
openclaw models fallbacks add <provider/model>. - If probe reports missing auth, fix the provider credentials before you trust the fallback chain.
- If a model was selected in chat but is not in the allowlist,
/model statusandopenclaw models statuswill disagree until you fix the config.
Frequently asked questions
What will I learn from How to Find All Enabled Fallback Models in OpenClaw?
Use the dedicated fallbacks list command plus full model status so you can see the chain that OpenClaw will actually try at runtime. The guidance is written for practical self-hosted OpenClaw environments, but commands and configuration can change between releases.
Should I back up OpenClaw before changing the configuration?
Yes. Back up the active configuration, credentials references, channel settings, and service definitions before repairs, upgrades, or model changes, then validate the gateway and important workflows after the change.
Can Milan help with OpenClaw setup or troubleshooting?
Yes. Milan provides OpenClaw setup, model and channel configuration, secure remote access, workflow automation, troubleshooting, and deployment support.