i'm considering the D-link Dsl-504t ADSL modem/router with built in 4 Port 10/100 Base-t Switch, as it is described on ebuyer.

i don't want to have to recompile the kernel to get it working. Will it be picked up easily?

As far as I know, this is like a little box of tricks that plugs into your phone line, then your pc connects to it, via it's network card. As long as your network card is recognised, has modules loaded and is generally working ok you shouldn't have a problem. I purchased something similar off ebuyer (quickfind 48449) and it works perfectly. You won't need any other modules loadede, or need to do any re-compiling, as long as your network card is working.

For ADSL the Speedtouch 330 USB modem works fine on my 9.2 and 10.0 installs, with the supplied Mandrake packages and ISP info.

>>Will it be picked up easily?<<

In terms of basic support, being Ethernet based, it's supported under Linux - on average people have more probs with USB, but there are exceptions.

so basically as long as the LAN port which is integrated in my motherboard is picked up, it'll work fine? Okay then.

just in case you need to know, my mobo is a FN45 in a shuttle SN45G with a nForce2 Ultra 400 chipset.

but just to put my mind to rest, there is a modem compatibility list i was linked to once, but i've lost that page now. Does anybody know what it is?

Is this what you mean?
MandrakeLinux Hardware Database

Usb versions are not suitable for Linux as most are passive devices and require specialised drivers which might not be in Linux versions.
The speedtouch requires drivers for Man 10.

The router you suggest is OK as all ethernet external routers will be easily found with Man 9.2 onwards. Man10 is even better and ensure the router is connected and on in an install.

I use the Lioncom Wireless 4 port adsl router with Man10 and had used 9.2 before and it only needs password and username to connect.
I have used it also with Susi 9.1, Fedora Core 2, Redhat 9.0 and 8.0 and all find it without any problems.