Why are you trying to build a secure network?
Chances are much more likely that someone on the network already will introduce the security risk, most likely unknowingly. Look up Kevin Mitnick, the greatest hacker alive who simply asked people for their passwords. Unless people have an actual reason to be busting into your network, wouldn't be too concerned about it.
Linksys, ASUS, Belkin, Logisys, TP-Link, Cisco all make good networking equipment. Get a unit that supports what you want and gets good reviews.
I wouldnt get a unit that doesn't support Gigabit Ethernet ports, might not be too useful now but if you were to add a NAS or get a fiber internet connection then it would matter a fair deal.