How to partition a new external HD in Windows 7?

[rfe777]

I just got a new Western Digital 2TB external hard drive for backup, but I want to partition it in order for it to be more effective(or so I've heard). I know that in Windows XP when you format a new hard drive you can make partitions with extreme ease. How can I do that in Windows 7?

TIA

 

[Maguscreed]

Disk management operates basically the same in windows 7.

Do not make more than 4 partitions as this can be problematic for the file system.
If windows built in is just not working for you or you don't understand it properly I suggest using a partition tool
Here's a decent one with a free version
Free Partition Magic alternative. Free Partition Manager Software for Windows 7/VISTA/XP/2000 and Windows Server 2003/2008/2000.