Is there really a magic software that helps you do SEO as opposed to manage it?

[Kflo]

E.g. create credible links to your site without to much manual labour?

[RyanKent]

Definitely not. If you are even asking that question, it indicates you are likely new to SEO and are likely vulnerable to a variety of SEO scams.

SEO results are achieved through time being spent by knowledgeable, experienced people who are using the right tools to get the job done.

[EGOL]

I really like Ryan's reply.  My only difference is that I would replace the word "tools" with "knowledge".

IMO, the more "tools" you use the more your performance will trend towards "average".  When there are only ten positions on the first page of Google with a million competing, "average" is failure.   You win by doing "better than the tools".

[David_ODonnell]

The only 'magic' you'll see from automated link building software is the vanishing act of your site from Google's index

[KeriMorgret]

Hi Kara,

Welcome to SEOmoz! Thanks for coming here to ask that question. It might help if you think of it the other way around -- are there credible sites that would allow a magic software to create links from them?

You might want to read the chapter on building links in our Beginner's Guide to SEO at http://www.seomoz.org/beginners-guide-to-seo/growing-popularity-and-links. It will give you a good introduction to quality link building.