I already know this is a stupid question, however, I need the answer so i'll deal with the embarrassment.

I'm looking into buying from first blackberry, the 8700c from AT&T, the AT&T website says it has a Embedded RIM wireless modem. Does that mean that I can access my private wireless network at home?

Sorry again for how stupid this must sound..

wireless network = wifi ?

if so then no bcause the phone does not have wifi. but you can use it as a tethered modem (connect to your pc via usb cable). mention this to AT&T so they can provide u with more info on which plan they offer that will let you do that.