said by nwrickert :

MAC filtering doesn't do much. Somebody watching your network can see what MAC address you are using. And then, at another time, they can clone that MAC address into their own system in order to get into your network.

Setup WPA, with a long passphrase. Or turn the wireless off in your router, and only turn it on during the times you are actually using it. You'll still be vulnerable when it is turned on, but that would at least reduce the window of opportunity for an attacker.

although I hate the thought of another login & password.

said by nwrickert :

That's usually not a problem. Setting up WPA for your own use is pretty much a "set and forget" operation.

You setup WPA on the router. Do that from a wired connection. Then copy the key you used into a file on a USB thumbdrive.

When you next connect with wireless, just cut/paste from the USB drive to setup WPA. Most wireless software will remember that key, so you only have to do that once.

When done, delete the file on the USB drive. If you ever need to know the key again, the chances are that your router displays it in clear text when you are on the wireless security settings page.

said by docrice :

It sounds like you need a primer on how Wi-Fi / 802.11 works and the security options available. Here's an article I wrote to address this which you might find helpful:

»wicked-styles.com/bitsandpieces/···ecurity/