Hi Tony,

You are right that with a regular WiFi antenna the range of a Netopia is not that far. However, things change when you use a directional antenna. You don't need to be too advanced to get significant distance improvements. Something as simple as a Pringles tube makes a useful directional antenna. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantenna

That's why you can't rely on what you think is your range for protection. Assume the attacker likes crisps :)

Bart.