I told a few members that I would post a thread about image noise. There are many related articles online, so instead of pretending to be an expert I'll add links to a few of them below. Image noise can be a factor in our monthly photo contests.
What is image noise?
wiki: Image Noise
article: ISO and Image Noise
article: What Is... Noise?
video: Noise in your image? Here is what you do about it.
video: Adobe Photoshop CS2: How to Reduce Noise
Noise Reduction?
There are various software options mentioned in the articles above. One program that I use on occasion is Neat Image. It can be used as a photoshop plugin or as a standalone app. There are more expensive options; a few friends have recommended Topaz Labs, but I have not tried them yet.

What is image noise?
wiki: Image Noise
article: ISO and Image Noise
article: What Is... Noise?
video: Noise in your image? Here is what you do about it.
video: Adobe Photoshop CS2: How to Reduce Noise
Noise Reduction?
There are various software options mentioned in the articles above. One program that I use on occasion is Neat Image. It can be used as a photoshop plugin or as a standalone app. There are more expensive options; a few friends have recommended Topaz Labs, but I have not tried them yet.