Questions about TV - Internet access feature

[Seeker47]

Some recent models have been coming out with such features (example: those with Panasonic's ViejaCast). This is to allow for direct access to some internet content. Access to Netflix or YT are among the things being mentioned. I'm not going to address the merits of these services right now, since they are in the rather early stages, and we can't be entirely sure what this is going to evolve into. But the promise is certainly there.

Anyway, my questions. From what I gather, even if one's TV does not have the internet feature, it might still be had "second hand" via another component that does, such as the new Oppo BD player ?
At the moment, I'm more curious about the networking setup issue. Does this need a wired connection, or are there some wireless dongles that would provide this connectivity ? If so, can anyone recommend particular ones ? Presumably, it would have to be able to make contact with one's wireless router -- even if the latter is secured to prevent log-ons by unapproved computers from outside of the home network.

Also, I'm wondering if the normal cable-modem service is going to be a fast enough connection to support media content streaming from the internet to one's TV ?

[MOVIEGEEK]

I have a Roku box so I can watch Netflix streamed movies on my tv, I use a ethernet cable from my cable modem. You could also use a wireless or powerline* router. Most LG and Samsung BD players can stream Netflix and Amazon VOD via ethernet, the XBox360 and PS3 can also with a special disc. I have a wireless G router and it's fast enough for streaming Netflix to my laptop.

*powerline uses an AC circuit.

[redwudz]

The WDTV Live box has some internet access, mostly to YouTube for video, but there are some possibilities for future options. You set up the LAN/internet access like any other device. Works well with a wireless USB LAN adapter or a wired LAN. Just put in the address of the adapter and make a few settings. Fairly easy and quick.

My 'N' wireless router is set up for WPA2-PSK [AES] encryption and it handles that with no problems. I use a cheap Edimax N USB adapter.

I still access NetFlix from a computer. I have read that NetFlix is going to add more streaming content. They use MS Silverlight at present, and it's fairly secure. But you need a fairly fast connection or it gets irritating with all the pauses or you end up with low resolution. I think it has a long, long way to go to replace DVD or other higher quality video. OK on a small screen most times.