help connecting work network from home via internet

[JCROCCO]

I have a network at work, and a home network, and would like to connect to work from home.

The work network uses an Netopia 7100 dsl router.
For the home network, Thinking of using a linksys cable router befvp41 (to support VPN).

I am pretty sure the 7100 supports VPN.

(It is my business and home so no problems there)

Running NT PTP at work, and XP PRO network at home.

Questions:

Do I need to do it via VPN?
Is there another way to do it?
Is this the right equipment?

Any help is appreciated, as I need to purchase at least a router, and maybe a cable modem, I would like to purchase what will help make this connection work.

Thanks a BUNCH !!!

 

[gunrunnerjohn]

I'm not sure of the compatibility issues between the two VPN appliances, but for sure you want VPN for the security I would imagine...

 

[JCROCCO]

Looking at using a linksysbefsx41 router with firewall and VPN support.

any thing else to consider?