What hardware do I need for this setup?

[arei34l]

I currently have a couple of computers running 24/7. Some are W2k and others are WinXP Pro. I'm interested in setting up a remote access VPN so I can remotely access my data on my computers from my laptop from somewhere else outside the network via Internet. I'm not that familiar with the technical aspects of VPN but I know that IPSec is the most secure of the three. I need recommendations on what hardware I need to purchase and how it should be setup so I can remotely access through a VPN client. I'm interested in: the Citrix Sonicwall series, the Cisco series, the Cyberguard/Snapgear series, the ZyWall series, and the Watchguard series. I prefer the equipment to cost under 1000 bucks. I also prefer it to be able to work with my current Linksys 8 port router and I like it to be easily configurable with high performance and security. And I need recommendations on any software that I will need such as clients or the other sort.