Firewall Protection

I have cable modem service at home, two home computers and a laptop from work, all running Windows 98. Will I be be better off with a software package, such as BlackIce on my home computers (about $40 ea) and trusting the integrity of my workplace firewall re my laptop, or would the Linksy BEFSR41 – EtherFast 4-port Cable/DSL route (abt ($90+) be a better solution?