Packet Switching in Quantum Networks: A Path to Quantum Internet

Abstract

Large-scale quantum networks with thousands of nodes require scalable network protocols and physical hardware to realize. In this work, we introduce packet switching as a new paradigm for quantum data transmission in both future and near-term quantum networks. We propose a classical-quantum data frame structure and explore methods of frame generation and processing. Further, we present conceptual designs for a quantum reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer to realize the proposed transmission scheme. Packet switching allows for a universal design for a next generation Internet where classical and quantum data share the same network protocols and infrastructure. In this new quantum networking paradigm, entanglement distribution, as with quantum key distribution, is an application built on top of the quantum network rather than as a network designed especially for those purposes. For analysis of the network model, we simulate the feasibility of quantum packet switching for some preliminary models of quantum key and entanglement distribution. Finally, we discuss how our model can be integrated with other network models toward a realization of a quantum Internet.

Quantum internet

“…Short-term efforts toward Quantum Internet are reasonably trying to reconcile quantum information and quantum entanglement to classical information -with an approach that can be defined as design by analogy [15]. This research activity is unquestionably important for the deployment of pilot smallscale networks, as well as from telcom operators' viewpoint aiming at maximizing current network assets revenue.…”

Connection-oriented and Connectionless Quantum Internet Considering Quantum Repeaters

“…Just like the classical internet, the locations of all the nodes and the topology of whole quantum network are known and labelled with numbers for calculating the path in connectionoriented quantum internet. In the process of distributing entanglement, one can choose both the circuit and packet switching protocols [38] of quantum version with different service requirements. For example, the circuit switching protocol is preferred for service customized quantum network which pursues high quality, and those networks are usually the time sensitive networks used for industrial quantum internet, medicinal and military applications.…”

“…The packet switching protocol of quantum signal is introduced in reference [38]. The quantum signal is inserted as a quantum payload in a quantum frame structure between a classical header and trailer.…”

“…Therefore, assisted with classical internet, the design of quantum internet protocol stack becomes intriguing and more complicated. In recent years, some meaningful researches about quantum internet are appeared with range from link layer [36][37][38] to network layer [39][40][41][42][43][44] and even to whole protocol stack [45][46][47]. To promote the quantum internet into mature in the future, there are still many studies to do for improving fundamental quantum technologies and quantum internet system as well as building the bridge between them.…”