Designing quantum repeater networks

Quantum networks generate distributed entangled state or relocate quantum state, uniquely ensuring eavesdropper detection or reaching agreement more quickly than their classical counterparts. These capabilities rely on the composition of link and multihop mechanisms into a coherent system, with particular attention to managing errors in and loss of delicate quantum states. This article explores quantum networking in terms of fundamental network architecture principles, and explains where and how it diverges from its classical counterparts. It discusses engineering principles that ensure robust and interoperable communication by introducing new protocol layers to support quantum sessions, and considers how these layers interact with quantum link mechanisms to support user-level quantum-enabled applications.