Quantum City: simulation of a practical near-term metropolitan quantum network

TL;DR

This paper introduces a simulation-based analysis of a practical metropolitan quantum network, demonstrating its current feasibility and potential for future quantum communication applications with limited hardware resources.

Contribution

It presents a detailed architecture and performance assessment of a near-term quantum network using realistic parameters and simulation tools.

Findings

Quantum networks are feasible with current technology.

Performance depends on topology and hardware choices.

Practical quantum network functionalities are within reach today.

Abstract

We present the architecture and analyze the applications of a metropolitan-scale quantum network that requires only limited hardware resources for end users. Using NetSquid, a quantum network simulation tool based on discrete events, we assess the performance of several quantum network protocols involving two or more users in various configurations in terms of topology, hardware and trust choices. Our analysis takes losses and errors into account and considers realistic parameters corresponding to present or near-term technology. Our results show that practical quantum-enhanced network functionalities are within reach today and can prepare the ground for further applications when more advanced technology becomes available.