New Computer setup

I regularly use computers, but I only use failry basic features (e.g., word processing, browsing, etc.).  I have purchased a notebook computer as a Christmas gift for my daughter.  I would like to set it up for many years of good service to her.  I have already downloaded many of the security type applications recommended on Gizmo's site.  Before I start installing anything though, I want to know if there are more fundamental things I should do to set the computer up.  For example, I think I recall seeing some discussion of the benefit of partitioning your hard drive to seperate applications and user data.  Is that really a good idea?  Are there other things that I can do now, while the computer has nothing but Windows XP installed, to make my life easier in the future?  Are there software applications that I can put on now to save myself headaches in the future?

Thanks,

Dad