How exactly do type-in domains work?

If your domain is redexample.com, does that mean if someone searches for ""red example"" they automatically go to your site?

Or is it if they type in ""red example"" into the url field of the browser? Or do they have to type in ""redexample""?

If in the browser, do they have to do the .com? If they don't, what about .net, and the rest?

And which would be better? redexample.com or red-example.com?

I'm not sure. I always thought it was simply like let's say I'm looking for ties, a lot of noobies type ties.com instead of googling it.

Type-in is exactly what it sounds like - people type it into their browser and press go. Hyphenated domains are next to worthless for type-ins.

it also depends on the browser, toolbars, your computer maker

like with a dell. it will automatically take you to there search page