SSID isn't any form of encryption - it's just a network name. It's also broadcast across the airwaves by an access point unless told not to. Thus, most APs will be telling the world what their SSID is. Turning SSID broadcast off works, but breaks Windows Zero Config for wireless. SSID is also broadcast when a wireless station associates or disassociates from the wireless network. Obtaining the SSID is generally trivial.
Short WPA-PSK keys can be broken with a dictionary attack, despite the presence of TKIP. Longer keys are preferable. WEP shouldn't be used really.
All WiFi networks in the 2.45GHz range are subject to interference from other WiFi networks, microwave ovens, video senders, cordless phones, garage door openers and a million other devices. Don't expect the max range for WiFi networks unless you live in the middle of nowhere.
Bluetooth has a specific profile for wireless networking BTW.
I've also had far too many headaches with wireless notworking in a number of places with a number of different adapters with a number of different people. I went back to a cable connection - was more reliable and a heck of a sight faster.
