A Novel Architecture for Future Classical-Quantum Communication Networks

Abstract

The standardisation of 5G is reaching its end, and the networks have started being deployed. Thus, 6G architecture is under study and design, to define the characteristics and the guidelines for its standardisation. In parallel, communications based on quantum-mechanical principles, named quantum communications, are under design and standardisation, leading to the so-called quantum internet. Nevertheless, these research and standardisation efforts are proceeding in parallel, without any significant interaction. Thus, it is essential to discuss an architecture and the possible protocol stack for classical-quantum communication networks, allowing for an effective integration between quantum and classical networks. The main scope of this paper is to provide a joint architecture for quantum-classical communication networks, considering the very recent advancements in the architectural design of 6G and the quantum internet, also defining guidelines and characteristics, which can be helpful for the ongoing standardisation efforts. For this purpose, the article discusses some of the existing main standardisation processes in classical communications and proposed protocol stacks for quantum communications. This aims at highlighting the potential points of connection and the differences that may imply future incompatible developments. The standardisation efforts on the quantum internet cannot overlook the experience gained and the existing standardisation, allowing the creation of frameworks in the classical communication context.

Exploring Quantum Sensing Potential for Systems Applications

“…Quantum clock synchronization is more precise than GPS because it employs the femtosecond correlation between entangled photons [92,93]. The quantum clock synchronization protocol defines communication between two nodes separated by an unknown distance in time and space [4]. A master quantum clock could be installed in a local network of directly connected slave quantum clocks.…”

“…QST utilizes quantum effects to accomplish something that a conventional sensor cannot [1][2][3][4][5]. Due to quantum systems' extraordinary sensitivity to external perturbations, quantum sensors precisely monitor various physical characteristics, including temperature, pressure, frequency, acceleration, rotation, magnetic and electric fields, and more [2].…”

“…Despite the high expectations, there is currently a lack of information regarding where and how QST can be effectively deployed and how it may affect the systems research domain [3]. Furthermore, application-oriented contributions to QST research tend to be scarce, fragmented, and narrowly focused [4].…”

“…Several quantum technologies, including atomic vapors, trapped ions, photonic qubits, superconducting circuits, and artificial atoms in wide-bandgap materials, have been used for sensing purposes in the past decade [1,2]. Governments and businesses have recognized the need to prepare for a quantum future even though quantum computing is likely years away [3,4]. While QST may substantially impact many aspects of humanity in the near future, QST applications area research is still in its infancy [3][4].…”

“…Governments and businesses have recognized the need to prepare for a quantum future even though quantum computing is likely years away [3,4]. While QST may substantially impact many aspects of humanity in the near future, QST applications area research is still in its infancy [3][4].…”