Tranceliner
Although what I am about to write has no relation to your original query, if you have more than one PC in your household then get yourself a modem/router. That way all your PCs will have access to the Internet and you will have the capability to add extra facilities such as Internet radio, streaming music from your PC and/or Internet phones (VOIP).
The extra (hair greying/falling out

) complexities that modem/routers bring you, in my opinion, can only be worth it if you have family members pushing you for their own PC/Internet connection.
But if you are a one PC and Internet connection household then stick with a simple (plug & play) USB ASDL modem, like the Thomson SpeedTouch 330 (now available for under £18.00)
Thomson SpeedTouch 330 Modem
Good Luck
UK Bob