Resources and Applications for Advanced Quantum Networking

Abstract

In this work, we discuss the main concepts, critical photonic resources, present efforts and challenges ahead aiming at the deployment of quantum communication networks at various stages of development and at a scale of data centres or global infrastructures. We present examples of applications of such networks spanning from ultra-secure communication to advanced cryptographic and communication protocols in distributed architectures. We argue that optical quantum networking, powered by entanglement as a fundamental resource and enhanced by highly efficient quantum memories, is key for scaling up quantum technologies, pursued by rapid advancements towards technological maturity and leading the path to an era of quantum connectivity.