If I am only using one computer that will be hard-wired (with no other internet enabled devices), do I even need a router? Can I just plug it in directly to the modem (are there safety issues?). Thanks.
I'm not sure that's entirely true. There are risks from being connected directly to the modem that being behind a router (wired or wireless) avoids, such as port sniffing.There would be no safety issues using a modem hard wired to your computer.