What about combining the router and the computer?

Would it be easier if the wireless router was made a part of the desktop computer, or home server?

The computer would just take the plug from the DSL/cable model box (or even that could be built in)… and then you could administer the router from a native client. Once you plug it in, your computer would broadcast your wireless network to other computers in the house, or other appliances.

Disadvantages:

you would need to make sure if the computer turns off, the router does not turn off
the computer now needs to be near the internet connection line (cable modem/DSL modem) or near a phone line if the modem is built into the computer

Advantages

One less confusing box for people.
Debugging the router.
Maybe network configuration could be made simpler since you are already connected to the router.

You probably still want a separate CPU for the router rather than using the computer CPU, otherwise you reserve 2% of the computer CPU for router usage.

I am just making all of this up.