AirPort security: how safe is it?

Several articles posted over the week-end covered a new report of a vulnerability in wireless network technology [Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption method], such as that used by Apple's AirPort (see one and two for examples): "While computer security experts had previously uncovered weaknesses in Wi-Fi, a standard for wireless-data communication also known as 802.11b, the latest discovery is being treated with more concern, because it is more feasible and takes less time to carry out."

An article by MacFixIt's John Welch suggests that the alarmist rhetoric may be a bit overheated. He also offers some advice on how to best secure your wireless network.