Can I power a 2560 with a 5v 2.5 wall wart PS?

I've been researching this a bit more and the documentation is a bit confusing.

I'm thinking the best way to power would be through the USB port. Just take a USB cable and cut the end off.

Or is the 5V where I would connect. But I see it would be advisable to add a diode.

If the 2560 is powered from with a through the barrel connector does the 5V become a reference voltage?

Is the Vin for 7-12 v input/same as the barrel connector?

Thanks