automatic connection not working

I have an HP laptop with Vista Home Premium and a a linksys wireless router.
I have a an automatic connection to my wireless (wep security and ssid
broadcast turned off).

Occasionally, the automatic connection does not work. I reconnect by
selecting the "unnamed" wireless network and reentering the wep key.

After a while, if I look at "manage wireless networks", I have many, many
entries (over 50 the last time).

I have two questions.

First, why does the network still show as "unnamed" if I have the ssid
broadcast turned off. Second, where are these other connections coming from
and how do I keep them from multiplying like rabbits?

All help is greatly appreciated.