base computer

I beleive you do need a PC directly connected to the router if it requires configuring (initial setup and updating).

not with a linksys wireless access point.

first you establish your wireless connection and then set up your dsl modem.

i cannot tell you about any other mfg. because i am not familiar with them.

Yes, and all the antennas need to also have the same identity.

RIVER FREIGHT

If the DSl router is capable of maintaining the connection by itself (as most DSl ROUTERS are) then you can just hang the wireless connection behind the router.

If the router is not capable of maintaining the connection you should still be able to connect it straight to the wikreless conenction, but there may be times when the connection goes down becaue of temporary loss of wireless signal from the computer that is maintaining the DSL connectivity.