Malware is short for Malicious software and is a catch-all term to refer to any software that can cause damage to a computer, server or other computing device.  Two of the biggest concerns for computer users today are viruses and spyware.  In both cases, we have seen that while these can be a problem, you can defend yourself against them easily enough with just a little bit of planning:

• Keep your computer's software patched and current.  Both your operating system and antivirus application must be updated on a regular basis.
• Only download updates from reputable sources.  For Windows operating systems, always go to http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/ and for other software, always use the legitimate Web sites of the company or person who produces it.
• Always think before you install something, weigh the risks and benefits and be aware of the fine print.  Does the lengthy license agreement that you do not want to read conceal a warning that you are about to install spyware?
• Install and use a firewall.
• Prevention is always better than cure.

Check out Why Didn't Your Anti Virus Software Stop Spam and Infections? to learn more.

I cannot get on the Internet.  Here are a few quick things to try and resolve:

1. Confirm your network cable is plugged in and you have a link light on it.
2. Try to ping a Web site, such as www.google.com - if you receive request time out, try the next step.
3. Try to ping by IP (Externally), e.g. 4.2.2.2 - If you get a response, you may have a DNS issue.
4. Is there another computer near you?  Is it experiencing the same issue?

Network Loops

Loops often occur in networks by accident.  For example, everything could seem fine first thing in the morning and all of a sudden your network will seem like it has come to a halt.  We have found numerous times that this occurs due to someone plugging something into the network.  This could be anything from a new switch, hub, router or another patch cable in the wrong location.  The first thing you must do is look at your core switches for activity.  Next, you must ask around your environment to see if anyone added something.  The quickest answer may be discovered by finding out what has changed in the network.

My fan on my PC sounds like a jet plane

99% of the time, when your PC fan sounds like it is speeding up, it is caused by dust and dirt.  Most often, we find that if we shut down the server/PC and open the case, we find dust has accumulated over the fans, CPUs, memory and hard disk.  You must do a scheduled cleaning of the internals of your computer.  This will keep it cooler, faster and prolong the life.  It will also keep the fans quiet.  Once a quarter is usually sufficient to do this.