my modem has a usb connection, so i tried connecting the modem to the console via a usb cable.  i kept getting an error message saying it cant connect to the modem, 51420 or something. 

ive found the nintendo website less than helpful.  so i figured id ask here.  

should i be able to connect directly to the console from the modem or have they done something requiring the purchase of a  special lan adapter.   like the "Datel Design LAN Adapter For Nintendo Wii" .  which is the only kind i see on best buy's site. 

and if i should be able to, any suggestions as to why it might not be working and what i can do to rectify the issue(s)

I haven't tried to connect directly with a usb cord, but it sounds like it should work. Make sure your connection is set to wired as default.

I can vouch for the LAN adapter. It works very well.

...yeah..logically it should work...  but nintendo doesnt always come to my mind when i think about whats logical.  as imo, logically a ethernet port would have been best. 

that adapter costs $30 , so i am hesitant.  it isnt a whole lot,  but its $30 i shouldnt have to spend.  money i would much more happily put to a game or the xbox store(id happily give it to nintendos store if i could get online as well lol)

 It doesn't I tried. You could find ethernet-usb adapters though for like 5-10 dollars online. They aren't 1st party , but still work. 

 I should have noted that, yes you can find them cheaper like I did.  Found mine on a Russian website.  My computer got infected by the website, but I still was able to get the adapter.

Ok so confirming this, ANY BRAND what so ever? Datel is a rip off, Nintys a rip off. Cheap no name brand, sweet price, but it will work ?

if you had a router it could work...as for direct plug in..read you Wii manual..

i tells you to get the adapter...if you don't have that..lol...that sucks