Mine were just strong enough to pull in so long as it wasn't raining! But yeah, more people are going with security and I can understand that. I've heard that some have to enable security because there are so many people using their hub that it slows way down (and I bet that's doubly true in areas with a lot of students- not to single them out, but as a group, they tend to be tech-friendly and short on cash).

But there are a few sites around, like http://www.free-hotspot.com/ that will help you find free access points in your area. Not as convenient as your own living room, but still worth knowing about in a pinch. I've been known to stop in front of a Panera Bread and pop the cover on the laptop for a quick map check when trying to find an address *g*.