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A computer "wizard" is a step-by-step guide in software that simplifies a complex task through a series of simple dialog boxes or screens. It asks users for information or choices at each step, providing guidance to help them complete a setup or configuration without needing extensive technical knowledge. Examples include installation wizards or a wizard for troubleshooting problems.

How a wizard works

Step-by-step guidance: A wizard breaks a complex process down into a series of easy-to-follow, sequential screens.

User input: Each screen prompts the user for specific information or selections.

Navigation: Users typically move through the process by clicking "Next," "Back," or "Cancel" buttons.

Simplified interface: The goal is to provide a user-friendly experience that avoids the need for the user to understand or manually enter complex commands or code.

Common uses

Software installation: Guiding users through the process of installing a new program.

Configuration: Helping users set up a new device, network connection, or software feature.

Troubleshooting: Walking a user through a series of questions and answers to diagnose and fix a problem.

The term's origin: The term "wizard" in this context is a metaphor for a human expert who can magically perform a complex task. The software wizard is designed to encapsulate that expert's knowledge and guide a regular user to achieve the same result with much less effort.