Lessons Learned on the Interface between Quantum and Conventional Networking

TL;DR

This paper discusses a hybrid quantum-conventional network architecture that integrates quantum and classical data channels over existing fiber infrastructure, supported by experimental implementation and analysis.

Contribution

It introduces a new quantum-conventional network (QCN) architecture with separate control and data planes, demonstrated through a local area network connecting quantum labs.

Findings

Successful implementation of a local quantum-conventional network

Insights into layering and tradeoffs for QCN functionalities

Experimental validation with quantum entanglement distribution

Abstract

The future Quantum Internet is expected to be based on a hybrid architecture with core quantum transport capabilities complemented by conventional networking.Practical and foundational considerations indicate the need for conventional control and data planes that (i) utilize extensive existing telecommunications fiber infrastructure, and (ii) provide parallel conventional data channels needed for quantum networking protocols. We propose a quantum-conventional network (QCN) harness to implement a new architecture to meet these requirements. The QCN control plane carries the control and management traffic, whereas its data plane handles the conventional and quantum data communications. We established a local area QCN connecting three quantum laboratories over dedicated fiber and conventional network connections. We describe considerations and tradeoffs for layering QCN functionalities, informed by our recent quantum entanglement distribution experiments conducted over this network.