> On the other issues of an ISP database. They seem valid, except maybe I
> am missing something also. Why would I want an ISP to run the database,
> instead of myself. Why would I want to "share" a database engine??
> Indeed, do I have to have the database on the same computer? I don't.

Ed, there is a very simple point that you are missing.

The reason you would have and ISP (read hosting company) to host the
database is that not everyone has enough cash lying around to have their own
dedicated machine connected 24/7 to the internet.

Pete