Is there a difference between a visitor and a temporary resident?

[martinamw]

Hi
I entered Canada last november on my passport and rented an apartment.  6 months later, I extended my stay with a temporary resident visa.  I came back home within my alloted time.

I presume that I am allowed to live temporarly in Canada with a temporary resident visa, but am I allowed live there temporarly by entering on my passport.

I need to go back to Canada and stay there for another 3 months.  I want to make sure I won't have any problems getting back in.