The Quantum Internet (Technical Version)

TL;DR

This paper explores the development, technology, and implications of a future quantum internet, including protocols, cryptography, and economic and political impacts, providing both technical and non-technical insights.

Contribution

It offers original ideas and a comprehensive review of quantum internet concepts, protocols, and potential societal impacts, bridging technical details and broader implications.

Findings

Quantum internet protocols enable secure communication.

Quantum cryptography enhances data security.

Potential economic and political impacts of quantum networks.

Abstract

Following the emergence of quantum computing, the subsequent quantum revolution will be that of interconnecting individual quantum computers at global level. In the same way that classical computers only realised their full potential with the emergence of the internet, a fully realised quantum internet is the next stage of evolution for quantum computation. This work examines in detail how the quantum internet would evolve in practice, focusing not only on the technology itself but also on the implications it will have economically and politically. We present both original ideas, as well as an extensive review of relevant and related background material. This work begins with a description of classical networks before introducing the key concepts behind quantum networks, such as quantum internet protocols, quantum cryptography, and cloud quantum computing. The work is divided into technical sections (requiring only a basic knowledge of the notation of quantum mechanics), for those interested in mathematical details, as well as non-technical sections for those seeking a more general understanding. We target this work very broadly at quantum and classical computer scientists, classical computer systems, software and network engineers, physicists, economists, artists, musicians, and those just generally curious about the future of quantum technologies and what they might bring to humanity.