do i need a router or an access point?

[zero_mac]

hi,
i am currently using 56k modem, and want to have a wireless LAN with that internet connection shared. in the future, i may get DSL or ADSL and would like the same hardware to work.
i'm running windows server 2003. i've read around a lot and seen all sorts of products. it looks like if i get a wireless dsl router then it won't work with a 56k modem, and if i get a wireless access point then it needs a separate router == more money?!.
can i run a software router on my windows server (e.g. NAT) and let a basic wireless access point take care of dishing out LAN + internet connectivity to the clients?
are there any features i will need on the access point?

thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this
tim

[Greenstead]

You can go straight for the wireless router and use it as an access point until you go BB. Just remember to disable the DHCP service in the router when you are using ICS on the Host PC.

[JackMDS]

Do not worry about the future. This stuff is cheap and changes more frequently that we change “underwear”.:D

You can find a Wireless Cable/DSL Router on sale for less than $30 and run it as an Access Point.

At times, the Combo of Wireless and ICS might not work properly. :confused:

If so, you can switch ICS Off, and use this: http://www.analogx.com/contents/download/network/proxy.htm

Link to: How do I use a Wireless Cable/DSL Router as a Switch with an Access Point? (http://www.ezlan.net/router_AP.html) :cool:

[zero_mac]

greenstead and jackMDS, please accept my sincere thanks!
that answers a lot of questions and solves a lot of problems.
cheers guys
tim