No, Trend was right, they aren't true routers.
Here's some discussion on the topic of routers vs switches vs hubs.
If you have basic security needs, something like a Netgear, Linksys, "router" should be alright. If you already have a "router," and you want an additional, standalone, more advanced firewall, we're getting into a new field. These devices can analyze packets to make sure they're what they say they are, and aren't destructive, can block out viruses, and can really lock down security.
For *most* people's purposes, a basic "router" will be more than enough. People won't be able to externally access your computer unless you establish the connection, or you've set up the "router" to allow this.