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If you're new to computer recording, the huge range of audio interfaces and software available can seem quite daunting - especially if you only want to make simple recordings. Many musicians will already have a mixer, and when you're starting out it can make sense to use the equipment you already have. In some cases, recording from a mixer will be the most practical option - for example, for DJ's and bands who want to record live sets, the easiest course of action would be to record a stereo output straight from their mixer.
If you're new to recording or if you're unsure about computers, it can be good to have a familiar point of reference. It's also easier on the purse strings, which can allow you to invest your cash in other areas of your recording system if you're working to a tight budget.

It's important to remember the possible limitations of recording with a mixer, though. Using a mixer to record will work best for fairly basic recording jobs, like putting a voiceover on a backing track or recording a live feed from the PA at your band's gig. If you're using a standard live or studio mixer, chances are you're only going to be able to record one stereo channel at any one time. You won't be able to record onto multiple channels - for example, recording several members of a band (or a drum kit) at once onto separate tracks, so you can set the levels and add effects later.
With a mixer connected to a standard sound card, all you'll get is a stereo signal with all of the channels already merged together - there's no way to split them or adjust the levels after recording. If this sounds like something you want to do, you'll find it much easier to work with a multi-channel audio interface (external sound card) than with a mixer.


Another fairly common misconception is that you can record using a mixer and then adjust the levels, pan and effects of what you've recorded using the mixer's controls. Again, with the vast majority of standard mixers this isn't possible - once you've recorded something onto your computer, the only way to adjust the levels is through the software, not the mixer.
If you want to be able to control your software using hardware faders and knobs, you can buy MIDI control surfaces that will allow you to do just that.