This read-create object classifies the kind of remote network element this row represents: elemManager(1) for an element manager, external(2) for a gateway-connected element, remote(3) for equipment at the far end of a radio link, or snm(4) for equipment managed by a SubNetwork Manager. Admins set it so the local network element correctly interprets how to reach and manage each remote entry, since the connection method differs by type. For example, setting remoteElementType to remote(3) marks that row as the microwave radio unit on the other end of a point-to-point link, distinct from an snm(4) entry managed through a separate SubNetwork Manager.