Leveraging Internet Principles to Build a Quantum Network

TL;DR

This paper proposes a classical Internet-inspired architecture for quantum networks, utilizing packet switching and adapted protocols to manage quantum resources and decoherence effectively.

Contribution

It introduces a novel abstraction that applies classical networking principles to quantum Internet design, enabling better resource management and fidelity control.

Findings

Classical congestion control protocols can be adapted for quantum networks.

The architecture effectively manages quantum memory decoherence.

End-to-end fidelity can be maintained around target levels.

Abstract

Designing an operational architecture for the Quantum Internet is challenging in light of both fundamental limits imposed by physics laws and technological constraints. Here, we propose a method to abstract away most of the quantum-specific elements and formulate a best-effort quantum network architecture based on packet switching, akin to that of the classical Internet. This reframing provides an opportunity to exploit the many available and well-understood protocols within the Internet context. As an illustration, we tailor and adapt classical congestion control and active queue management protocols to quantum networks, employing an architecture wherein quantum end and intermediate nodes effectively regulate demand and resource utilization, respectively. Results show that these classical networking tools can be effective in managing quantum memory decoherence and maintaining end-to-end fidelity around a target value.