MTA: usage of smart host

[David Fokkema <fokkema@nat.vu.nl>]

Hi group,

I have a computer basically running 24/7 on an ADSL connection. Should I
use the mail server of my provider as a smart host like windows clients
have to do? If so, why can't I send mail directly to the internet? What
are the pros and cons?

Thanks for any help,

David